Early Life and Education
Lesley Gillespie OAM is a renowned entrepreneur, educator, and philanthropist, best known as the co-founder and director of Bakers Delight, Australia’s largest national chain of bakeries. Her journey began after she graduated from Monash University in 1977 with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) and a Diploma of Education. Following her graduation, Lesley began her career as a full-time teacher at Footscray High School while gaining invaluable experience working in the Old Style Bread Centre, which would later shape her future in the bakery industry.
Founding Bakers Delight
In 1980, alongside her husband, Roger Gillespie, and partner Gary Stephenson, Lesley founded Bakers Delight in Hawthorn, Victoria. The couple acquired full ownership of the business by 1983, and under their leadership, Bakers Delight flourished, expanding to more than 700 bakeries across Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the United States.
Community Engagement and Impact
Bakers Delight has not only established itself as a household name but has also garnered a reputation for its community engagement. The company has raised over $6.5 million for the Breast Cancer Network Australia since 1999, demonstrating Lesley’s commitment to social causes. The company also donates more than $143 million worth of bread annually to local charities, emphasizing its role in supporting communities.
Awards and Recognition
Lesley’s dedication to her work has earned her numerous accolades, including the Order of Australia Medal in 2006 for her contributions to business and philanthropy. She was also a finalist for the Prime Minister’s Award for Community Partnerships in 2004 and received the Boroondara Citizen of the Year Award in 2002, shared with Roger. The couple’s significant contributions to entrepreneurship were recognized with their induction into the Swinburne University’s Australian Graduate School of Entrepreneurship Hall of Fame.
Continued Influence and Philanthropy
Beyond her business endeavors, Lesley has been actively involved in education and governance. She served as a board member for various organizations, including the Australian Business Growth Fund, and is the chair of the Philanthropic Advisory Committee for the World Mosquito Program, which aims to combat mosquito-borne diseases globally. Lesley also holds a Fellowship from Monash University and has received honorary doctorates from both Monash University and Swinburne University in recognition of her leadership and community contributions.
Family Legacy
Despite stepping back from the day-to-day operations of Bakers Delight, Lesley continues to influence the business as a board member, allowing her children to lead the company. Her son Aaron oversees the North American operations, while her daughter Elise and son-in-law David Christie manage operations in Australia and New Zealand.
Philosophy and Future Aspirations
Lesley Gillespie’s journey reflects her ethos of hard work, community service, and commitment to excellence. She firmly believes in the principle that every baker should be delighted by the product they bake and every customer should be delighted by the service they receive. This philosophy continues to drive the culture and practices of Bakers Delight, making it a shining example of Australian entrepreneurship and community involvement.
Lesley’s story is one of perseverance, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to uplifting those around her, showcasing her as a true pioneer in the bakery industry and a beloved figure in the Australian community.
