WiHTL list names 100 'women to watch' in hospitality

Influential women in hospitality, travel and leisure have been highlighted in a list of 100 female role models across the sectors.

Chef Chantelle Nicholson and Pret a Manger managing director Clare Clough are among those featured in the Women to Watch and Advocates for Change in Hospitality, Travel and Leisure Index 2020.

The list has been produced by Women in Hospitality, Travel and Leisure (WiHTL) in partnership with the MBS Group.

It highlights female leaders across the sector "distinguished for their commercial and operational excellence, industry and social impact, achievements, resilience and commitment to the industry".

The index includes Beth Anderson, people director at Revolution Bars; Suzanne Baker, commercial director at Stonegate Pub Company; and Joanna Kurowska, director of operations at InterContintental Hotels Group.

Also on the list are Rebecca Di Mambro, head of marketing at Leon Restaurants; Marta Pogroszewska, managing director at Gail's Bakery, and Luana Herrmann, the Restaurant Group's head of brand and marketing.

Each woman has shared their career history to help inspire others to follow their path.

Tea Colaianni, chair of WiHTL, said "I feel proud to share their stories, which will undoubtedly inspire other women and underrepresented groups to pursue a career within the sector – despite its current challenges – and progress to reach the most senior levels within their organisations."

Also listed are 10 ‘advocates for change': a group of men and women using their senior positions to promote diversity and inclusion in the hospitality, travel and leisure sectors.

These include TGI Fridays chief executive Robert Cook, Keith Barr, chief executive of InterContinental Hotels Group, and Lynne Weedall, non-executive director at Greene King.

The index can be downloaded here.