Julia Kessler
Julia Kessler, CEO & Co-Founder of Nix & Kix, a multi-award-winning B-Corp adult soft drinks brand, is deeply committed to fostering growth and leadership within the industry.
Apart from steering her company to success, she dedicates time to supporting, coaching, and mentoring founders, leaders, and young talent.
- Tell us a little bit about your business…
Nix & Kix, a female-founded and B Corp certified drinks brand, burst onto the scene in 2017 with a bold mission: to redefine healthy refreshment and disrupt the mundane. Tired of the soft drinks market being dominated by a handful of giant brands containing artificial ingredients and an absurd amount of sugar, Nix & Kix emerged as a refreshing alternative. At the heart of our ethos is a commitment to authenticity — where savouring life’s vibrant flavours is not just encouraged but guilt-free. With a unique blend of real ingredients and no added sugar or sweeteners, Nix & Kix soft drinks offer a refreshing departure from the ordinary with an added zing.
- How did you get into the industry?
My journey into the beverage industry was somewhat unconventional. With 12 years of experience in Supply Chain, Operations, and Program Management within the Hi-Tech and software sectors, I cultivated a strong foundation in managing complex processes and delivering results. However, it was the shared vision with Kerstin and our mutual passion for a healthier lifestyle that truly sparked the creation of Nix & Kix. We were driven by a deep desire to offer a healthier alternative to the traditional soft drinks that dominate the market.
- How would you describe your leadership style?
I like to lead by example, I set clear goals while providing the support and resources necessary for our team to succeed. An inclusive environment is essential, ensuring everyone feels valued and has a voice, thereby fostering innovation and a sense of team unity.
- How do you get the most out of the people who work for you?
In a startup like ours, versatility is crucial, and adapting to various roles is inherent. Acknowledging this, I’m dedicated to offering ample support, including professional development and a work culture that celebrates achievements while tackling challenges together. This strategy aims to motivate and inspire our team, promoting initiative and ownership. Such an environment is key for team growth and our business’s success.
- What are the most crucial elements to your business running smoothly and being successful?
To run a business smoothly and successfully, three elements are key: a strong, cohesive team, clear and open communication, and a collective focus. These components are foundational for resilience and growth.
- How has the past 12 months been for you?
The past 12 months have been a period of courageous decisions and strategic adjustments for us. We’ve undertaken a comprehensive review of our product range, sales strategy, and team structure, aiming to refine our operations and position ourselves robustly for future success. This period has been about laying a solid foundation for growth, guided by a clear vision for the brand’s path forward.
- What will the next 12 months look like for your business?
In the next 12 months, Nix & Kix is poised for significant growth and expansion. Having established a strong foundation across Retail, eCommerce, Foodservice, and International markets, we’re now focused on amplifying our distribution and rate of sale. The key strategy to achieve this is by elevating consumer demand through heightened brand awareness. We aim to engage our customers more deeply, tell our story in compelling new ways, and highlight the unique benefits of our products to a wider audience.
- What are the highlights of your career so far?
Reflecting on my career, several milestones stand out. Getting our products listed with the largest retailer in the country was a significant achievement, marking a pivotal moment in our brand’s recognition and reach. Successfully steering the business through the tumultuous waters of Brexit, the global pandemic, and the cost of living crisis has been incredibly challenging yet rewarding, showcasing our resilience and adaptability. On a personal note, mentoring and coaching 10 talented individuals has been a highlight, allowing me to contribute to their professional development and witness their growth.
- What’s the biggest business mistake that you’ve learnt from?
One of the biggest lessons came from an early mistake of pursuing too many channels and launching new products prematurely. This experience taught us the importance of focus and the value of strategic product introductions. We’ve since adjusted our approach to be more targeted and thoughtful in our expansion efforts.
- What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve been given?
The best piece of business advice I’ve received is about the importance of personal well-being for the health of the business. “If you’re not healthy, the business won’t be either.” This advice underscored the necessity of setting boundaries and prioritising self-care alongside business commitments. It’s a principle that has influenced not only my approach to leadership but also our company culture, emphasising a balanced and sustainable path to success.
