She ruled the company with an iron hand in a velvet glove, strict but fair.
Она управляла компанией железной рукой в бархатной перчатке, строго, но справедливо.
Definitions
A manner of behaving that appears gentle and kind on the surface but is actually very strict, forceful, or ruthless underneath; showing firmness or severity concealed by a polite or gentle exterior.
