Kia Buckley, a 25-year-old CEO of the Australian activewear brand Kikiva, has gained significant attention for detailing what she considers the "bare minimum" benefits for her employees. Her approach, shaped by negative past work experiences, includes offering flexible start times, free daily coffee, and the ability to take annual leave with few restrictions.
Buckley, who founded her company at age 23, stated that her own challenging experiences with previous employers motivated her to create a more supportive work environment. "How did I learn to be the boss I am today? That's because I've had bosses that made me want to be nothing like them," she explained.
Among the perks Buckley offers are a flexible start time between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m., allowing staff to choose what suits them best. Employees also receive a daily free coffee or other beverage from a nearby cafe, funded by the business as a token of appreciation. Buckley also encourages staff to take time off for personal appointments, such as hair or beauty treatments, provided they are scheduled in the company calendar and do not disrupt critical periods.
She is particularly firm on the policy regarding annual leave, stating she would "never decline your leave, unless it's in our red zone." These "red zones" refer to peak sales periods for the business, such as Black Friday. Even during these times, Buckley indicated a willingness to accommodate leave requests if employees explained their circumstances.
Buckley emphasized her desire to avoid being a "nasty" or fear-inducing boss. She described her management style as one where she doesn't "act like the boss" and aims to be approachable, suggesting that an outsider wouldn't immediately identify her as the CEO.
Other benefits mentioned include well-stocked office fridges with sugar-free drinks and muesli bars, and a welcome box for new employees containing items like perfumes, hand sanitizers, activewear, and bags. Buckley also occasionally allows employees to leave work early on Fridays if the week has been productive and the team's general sentiment is positive.
The company also features an employee of the month award, with nominations from colleagues, offering a $250 prize. Additionally, employees can select items from a special activewear box free of charge. Staff also receive discounts on new collections seven days after their public launch, following initial priority for regular shoppers.
Buckley's approach has resonated with many online, with some users expressing a desire to work for her. However, her video has also sparked discussions about workplace expectations and the definition of "bare minimum" benefits. She has shared instances of past employers who instilled anxiety, such as being reprimanded for needing to use the restroom while ill or being yelled at in front of customers. These experiences, she stated, were instrumental in shaping her own management philosophy.
"It was f*ed for so many years, never asked me one question about my life and didn't actually give a fk about me as a person," Buckley recalled of a past toxic manager. "She would be so angry if I was sick... it was almost like I was committing a crime."