International Women’s Day Profile: Keren Cook, NatureBee CEO
Could you share with us a bit about what your role entails at NatureBee?
As CEO, I steer NatureBee’s vision toward innovative natural health solutions, manage our dedicated team, and engage in strategic decisions, from product development to market expansion. It’s a role that keeps me on my toes!
How is NatureBee progressing?
Despite global economic headwinds we’ve managed not only to stay afloat but grow. We’re making a conscious pivot to enhance logistics, specifically designed to underpin further expansion into key markets like Australia and the United States.
This has been possible due to an intimate understanding of our customer base and an unwavering commitment to natural, quality health products.
New products, exciting times?
Definitely exciting times! We are launching PowerBee, a pollen-fuelled health shake, which reflects our commitment to innovation.
It’s the culmination of rigorous scientific testing, product development, and natural goodness – and over two years of R&D perfecting the recipe, working closely with a human immunologist (PhD) refining logistics, and aligning our branding to ensure it’s just right.
As someone passionate about wellness, for me this product is a perfect example of how we harness nature for balanced nutrition.
We know that the fitness community well understands the benefits of PowerBee, particularly in the realms of both energy and recovery, but we also want to reach those who would benefit from a high-quality nutritional solution, while on the go.
What challenges does your job present to you?
Every day is different. The current economic climate demands strategic manoeuvring to maintain sales growth and market position. Keeping up with the rapid pace of e-commerce’s ever-shifting landscape poses its own challenges, as does managing an international brand from our Kiwi roots.
What developments keep you awake at night?
The potential of what’s next for NatureBee and ensuring we remain proactive in a fast-moving market. I’m always thinking about how we can evolve to meet our customers’ health needs and stay ahead of trends.
International Women’s Day is here. Does it have special meaning for you?
Absolutely. It’s a day to celebrate the strides we’ve made and ponder the road ahead. Women continue to break barriers and redefine industries, including health and wellness.
For me, it’s about highlighting our contribution and inspiring the next generation of women leaders to exceed their own expectations.
Who or what inspires you?
Presently what inspires me is developing products that really make a difference in daily wellness and overall well-being. With that I’m talking a lot about integrity at that base level.
Sure, it must look good, but when you innovate as a company, you need to ask yourself if you are on this journey to do it well and properly. I’m proud of our most recent product because we haven’t cut any corners. It’s taken longer than expected because of the attention to every detail by our whole team.
My inspiration presently is about driving quality and innovation at NatureBee. I’m also deeply curious about what our customers say and share. I love receiving customer testimonials and feedback!
Do you have a favourite quote?
“Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated.” ~ Confucius
Last book you read?
I’m currently reading two: The Bee Sting by Paul Murray and Being Extraordinary – By Confronting your Ordinary by Mike Bennetts.
The business advice from Mike is refreshingly pragmatic and it’s a book that focuses on improving actions and responses to business challenges in the here and now, as well as the future. It’s relatable for businesses of all sizes.