Her Story
About Kat
Kat Riseden has more than 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry and currently serves as Conference Center Coordinator for one of the largest law firms in the Jackson Metro area. In this position she oversees all events and collaborates with local caterers. Her career includes managing higher-end restaurants, serving as a food broker for over 10 years, and developing strong front-of-house expertise. She earned a hotel and restaurant management degree along with a culinary degree and received an honorary student award while in college. Riseden attributes her professional success and servant's-heart management style to the early influence and support of her grandmother. She remains engaged in her community as a PTO member, sponsor of the Alzheimer's Association annual walk, and participant in ministries at Crosspoint church in Madison that assist women transitioning from jail or abusive situations, support men's fellowship programs, and aid youth organizations.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kat
01What do you attribute your success to?
My grandmother got me in the kitchen at a very young age and got my passion for cooking. She has always supported me and taught me a servant's heart. She helped shape my manager style where I don't ask anybody to do anything that I wouldn't do myself.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
To not rely on other people, and if you want it, to go after it yourself and not be shy about it. Hard work and determination.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
You're gonna have bad days, but to always remember that when it gets hard to kneel, and remember that God's there with you, because it's not gonna always be pretty, but if He got me through, He'll get you through, too.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
There's a lot more opportunities for women now than there were for me. It was harder for women in kitchens when I was younger. Now it's frowned upon to say things like women have their place, so women have a lot more opportunity.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Staying rooted in Christ helps keep all those values centered. Keeping even my career rooted in Christ helps everything stay happy and revolving how it should. That leads us to help others and touch other families.
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