2017 RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur RBC Momentum Award Finalist: Rachel Mielke

Rachel Mielke

Founder and CEO, Hillberg & Berk

RBC Momentum Award, WEST

Hillberg & Berk is one of Canada’s leading high-end jewellery brands that differentiates itself through an established mission to empower women, creating beautiful jewellery not only to help women capture their unique sparkle, but also to support causes dedicated to women’s empowerment. From design to manufacturing, eighty percent of Hillberg & Berk pieces are made at their Regina headquarters, allowing hands-on quality control throughout the manufacturing process. Their line is sold through 90 retailers across Canada, The Shopping Channel, five corporately owned locations in Saskatchewan and Alberta and at hillbergandberk.com. Hillberg & Berk’s philanthropy, which focuses on women’s empowerment, gives back (at minimum) 2.5% of profits annually to charities benefiting women worldwide. To help women reach their potential, they are committed to supporting causes that educate women and girls.

What is the one piece of advice that you would give to aspiring entrepreneurs?

Find a great mentor who you really admire. Choose the things that they really do well both personally and professionally and try to learn how they mastered those skills.

How can a company prepare for the challenges that come with rapid growth?

Create a culture of agility and flexibility that allows you to quickly address the challenges and changes that constantly come your way. Hire people who are great problem solvers and empower them to make the decisions needed. As you grow, you will be your company’s biggest bottle neck so you must learn how to build the next level of talent early.

Who else are we celebrating? See all of the 2017 RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Award finalists.