Chloe Jones, head of marketing at Princess Cruises is this week’s guest writer in the latest instalment of the IMAA’s Future Leaders of Tomorrow program, following on from the last instalment with Karla Judge. Jones delved into the power of mentorship and backing yourself through self-doubt.
1. How did you get involved (and why) this program specifically?
Chloe Jones: I was honoured to be asked to be part of the program by Catherine Rushton, Chief Strategy Officer at This is Flow – our media agency and partner for the last five years. Naturally, I said yes! I agreed to be involved in the programme because I’m passionate about supporting and developing the next generation of female leaders within our industry. I’ve seen first hand the impact that guidance, encouragement and honest conversations can have at pivotal career moments, and I value the opportunity to help others build confidence, clarity and momentum in their careers.
2. Why is mentoring women in the industry so important for its future success?
CJ: Mentoring is especially important in our industry, where career paths are often non-linear and female leadership representation at senior levels still has room to grow. Strong mentors help bridge that gap by sharing experience, opening doors and creating safe spaces for learning, challenge and growth.
3. Who are/were your mentors, and what did you learn from them?
CJ: Personally and professionally, mentoring has played a significant role in my own career. I’ve benefited from mentors who believed in me, challenged me and helped me navigate key decisions, and those experiences have shaped the leader I am today.
Special shout-out to Jennifer Vandekreeke (CEO at URBNSURF), who has been my mentor for the last several years, and helped me to navigate the uncharted waters of working for a cruise line during a global pandemic!
Being a mentor now is both a way to give back and an opportunity to continue learning myself through fresh perspectives and meaningful connection.
4. If you could offer one piece of advice to all future leaders, what would it be and why?
CJ: One of the most important things I would tell future leaders is that feeling like an imposter at times is normal, and it doesn’t mean you don’t belong in the room. In fact, the moments where you question yourself are often the moments where you’re growing the most. The key is to acknowledge that feeling without letting it define you.
Confidence in leadership isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about trusting your experience and perspective while remaining humble enough to keep learning. The best leaders balance conviction with curiosity. They back themselves, but they also listen, ask questions and stay open to new ideas and perspectives.
Imposter syndrome can actually be a powerful reminder to stay grounded and connected to the people around you. When you combine confidence with humility and a genuine willingness to learn from others, you create a leadership style that is both authentic and effective. That balance not only helps you grow as a leader, but it also creates space for the people around you to grow as well.
