Forttuna Global 100 is an exclusive recognition platform honoring the top leaders who have demonstrated outstanding innovation, resilience, and impact across various industries.

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Dr. Sandra Kay Lee, MBA

President & Chief Executive Officer, Creative Dining Services

Bio

Dr. Sandra Kay Lee is an accomplished chief executive and transformational leader with a strong record of driving operational excellence, revenue growth, and cultural change across complex, multinational organizations. With more than two decades of leadership experience spanning foodservice, hospitality, and aviation, she has managed enterprises generating over $2.5 billion in revenue and successfully guided organizations through large-scale turnarounds, crisis management, and sustained growth.


As President and Chief Executive Officer of Creative Dining Services, Dr. Lee leads strategic initiatives focused on scalable operations, strong client partnerships, and employee empowerment. Her leadership has strengthened organizational performance while fostering cultures where accountability, innovation, and service excellence thrive. In prior executive roles, she oversaw more than $400 million in revenue, achieved a 95 percent bid-to-win rate on new partnerships, and implemented initiatives that significantly enhanced customer experience and operational efficiency.


During the pandemic, Dr. Lee demonstrated decisive, values-driven leadership by launching community-focused programs that ensured food access for students in need while preserving jobs and strengthening brand trust. Her career reflects a deep commitment to servant leadership, talent development, and customer-centric strategy. She has authored operational playbooks, championed technology adoption, and led award-winning food security initiatives.


A United States Army veteran and lifelong learner, Dr. Lee holds a Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership and an MBA. Recognized among the Top 50 Women Leaders in Illinois in 2022 and 2024, she is passionate about building inclusive cultures where innovation flourishes, service defines success, and every individual is empowered to lead with purpose.

Personal Quote:

Envision a world where excellence drives innovation, service defines success, and every team member is empowered to lead with purpose, shaping a future of limitless possibilities. - Dr. Sandra Kay Lee, MBA”

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