From humble beginnings to industry-wide acclaim, Jacqui Poulier embodies the very essence of exceptional leadership in the hospitality industry.

As the visionary owner of Alatonero on the picturesque Mornington Peninsula, Jacqui has redefined what it means to be a leader, an entrepreneur and a mentor. Her journey, marked by creativity, decisiveness and resilience, has earned her not just a thriving business but also accolades like the prestigious 2024 Business Woman of the Year title at the Wild Women in Business Awards.

Jacqui’s path to success began at 25 when she opened her first restaurant, Stillwater at Crittenden – an instant success that became a staple of culinary excellence. Over two decades, she has developed a remarkable track record of creating, operating and transforming restaurants into award-winning venues, employing thousands of staff and mentoring the next generation of hospitality professionals. Her commitment to fostering connections between people, communities and cultures has been at the heart of every venture she’s undertaken.

Alatonero, Jacqui’s latest jewel, perfectly captures her ethos of community and innovation. The restaurant is not just a dining destination but a celebration of modern Greek cuisine, vibrant hospitality and idyllic surroundings. With its serene garden terrace adorned with festoon lights and olive trees, Alatonero offers an atmosphere where memories are made – be they of weddings, family gatherings, or quiet evenings for two.

Under Jacqui’s leadership, the venue has become synonymous with exceptional service, creative cocktails, and a menu that pays homage to Greek flavours with a contemporary twist.

During the challenging COVID-19 pandemic, Jacqui’s leadership was nothing short of transformative. She steered her team of 80 through uncertain times with clarity and vision, leveraging digital tools to enhance operations and customer engagement. Initiatives like cloud-based POS systems, online ordering and virtual staff training ensured business continuity while aligning with environmental sustainability.

These changes not only helped Alatonero weather the storm but also positioned it for long-term growth, earning it the 2024 Excellence in Hospitality award.

A hallmark of Jacqui’s leadership is her ability to inspire and connect with her team. Through daily huddles and a culture of mentorship, she fosters an environment of collaboration and mutual support. Her focus on training junior staff has created a pipeline of talent, with many progressing into leadership roles themselves. Jacqui’s hands-on approach and open communication ensure every team member feels valued, empowered, and invested in the shared success of the business.

Beyond her restaurants, Jacqui’s influence extends to the wider industry. As a judge for the Tourism Australia Tourism Awards and a national director on the board of Restaurant and Catering Australia, she has helped shape the future of hospitality in Australia. Her work has earned her accolades, but perhaps most significantly the respect and admiration of peers and employees alike.

For Jacqui, leadership is not just about running a business; it’s about creating a legacy – a legacy of excellence, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to the people she serves, be they her loyal customers, her dedicated team, or the broader community.

Through Alatonero and her other ventures, she continues to set the standard for what hospitality can and should be: authentic, inspiring and unforgettable.