In a world full of founder hype and Instagram-worthy storefronts, it’s easy to forget what it actually takes to build a sustainable business. At StaffAny, we talk to F&B operators every day — and one thing always stands out: most success stories aren’t glamorous. They’re built from tough decisions, late nights, and learning through trial and error.

That’s why we wanted Leaders Lounge to feel different. Fewer buzzwords, more real conversations. Less talking at you, more talking with each other.

Highlights from Our First Leaders Lounge in Jakarta

The room was filled with familiar faces and new ones, all united by a shared mission: to build businesses that are not just profitable, but built to last. And we couldn’t have asked for a better voice to kick off the night than Melisa Irene, Partner at East Ventures.

Melisa brought honesty and clarity to the conversation in a way that deeply resonated. Instead of talking about big valuations or unicorn status, she spoke about alignment, resilience, and staying close to your customers.

Here’s what stood out most from her session:

• Investor-founder alignment is everything. Capital helps, but shared vision matters more. Investors want to back people who are building in a way that aligns with their own long-term thinking.
  
  
• Deep market understanding sets you apart. Know who you serve, how you serve them, and how that changes over time.
  
  
• Growth means nothing without consistency. You can scale fast, but can you keep your quality high while doing it?
  
  
• Show the long game. Founders who can see five years ahead, not just five weeks, stand out.
  
  
• Technology should serve you, not distract you. Use tools that make your operations leaner and your team more focused.
  
  
• A solid track record still matters. Even mature or legacy brands can raise capital when their story is strong and their foundation is healthy.
  
  

Her most powerful message was simple:

“Start with a few strong stores. Focus on real profitability. Stay close to your customers. And always, always think long-term.”

That advice hit home for many in the room. Because let’s face it, in F&B, margins are tight and expectations are high. It’s easy to get caught up chasing expansion, when the real win might be refining what’s already working.

What Made It Special

It wasn’t just the keynote that made this night different. It was the vibe. The side conversations.

The “yep, been there too” moments that made everyone feel less alone.

There’s something powerful about being in a room full of people who get it. Who knows how hard it is to run a kitchen, retain a team, navigate tough feedback, or open a new outlet with fingers crossed?

One founder told us, “It’s rare to find a space where you don’t have to pretend like everything’s perfect.” And that’s exactly what we hoped Leaders Lounge would be a space where founders can drop the pitch and just be real.

If You Missed It

We know not everyone could make it. If you didn’t catch the first Leaders Lounge, don’t worry, this is just the beginning. You can watch the Jakarta recap video here: Link

Thank You for Being Part of the Conversation

It’s easy to think you’re the only one figuring things out. But nights like this remind us you’re not alone. Everyone in that room has had doubts, made mistakes, and kept going anyway. And when we come together, we don’t just share knowledge, we share strength.

So thank you again to everyone who came, contributed, and made the first Leaders Lounge Jakarta something we’ll never forget.

We’re building something real here, and we’re just getting started.