Members of this LinkedIn group met in person for the second year in a row to discuss topics that affect women in travel, tourism & hospitality. The online group includes more than 8,500 members globally.
Los Angeles, CA, February 12, 2015 – After a promising first year, the Travel Industry Executive Women’s Network, powered by BLLA (Boutique Lifestyle Lodging Association), held a Forum on January 28th in downtown Los Angeles at The Palm Restaurant. Highlights included a panel of 7 executives in the industry discussing women’s leadership.
The initial hour of the event was dedicated to networking – greeting old friends and making new acquaintances. With a hundred people in attendance from all aspects of travel, hospitality & tourism, there was plenty to talk about. Those in attendance broke bread together and considered questions including: Why is it important for employers to have a diverse employee base, especially on the executive level? How is having a gender balance in leadership more effective for the bottom line? What does a women’s perspective bring to the table? Is life/work balance achievable?
After an introduction by Frances Kiradjian, founder of TIEWN and CEO of BLLA, the moderator and panelists jumped into a lively discussion on topics concerning professional women from the industry. Led by Renie Cavallari of Aspire Media, the speakers reflected an impressive level of talent: Deborah Negrel (VP Development, MGM / Hakkasan), Teresa Goebel (Partner, Goodwin Proctor LLC), Fran Hereth (Principal, Kango Development), Ruth Ormsby (VP Development, Carlson Rezidor), Tama Holve (CEO Willett Travel) and Kay Lang (President/CEO, Kay Lang+Associates).
Statistics bear out the need for both a network and event of this type: * In the past six years, there has been a 230% increase in women-only travel businesses. (The Gutsy Traveler) * Regardless of where they’re going, or who with, women make 80% of all travel decisions. (The Gutsy Traveler) * In terms of industry breakdown, Leisure & Hospitality ranks third in employing women. 10.3% of all working women are in this field. (US Dept. of Labor) * The highest paid Female CEO’s still make millions less than their Male counterparts. (ThinkProgress.org)
The rapport among not only the panelists, but the audience was evident. As the speakers dispensed anecdotes from their own storied careers, and gave advice on handling various situations, the attendees were welcome to contribute. Questions, observations and laughter were shared by all.
Highlights of the conversation include: * In reference to the ultimate B word, ‘balance,’ Tama Holve spoke from personal experience, “you have to commit to something of interest outside yourself, for yourself. If you commit, then it too becomes a priority.” * Speaking to the fear anyone might experience while climbing the corporate ladder, Deborah Negrel used a compelling metaphor, “in life there are times when I could choose to stay on the edge of the pool, or jump. I choose to jump.” * Responding to the question of how to socialize with colleagues outside of traditional male avenues, Teresa Goebel and Kay Lang both emphasized the ability women have to relate to each other. As Teresa stated, “developing individual relationships on a deeper level, remembering things about a peer or client, this creates a connection that exists beyond physical limitations. One needn’t play golf or drink scotch to have a meaningful work relationship.” * Income disparity between women and men being a genuine concern for the audience, the panel encouraged women to cite their qualifications in detail and not be afraid to ask for more money. As Tama Holve put it “you only get what you ask for.”
These are just a few of the topics covered at this engaging, educational, eye-opening event. As women left that afternoon, a buzz filled the air. Buoyed by the positivity created by the event, attendees continued to mingle, network and connect after the event officially ended. As a forum to provide professional women from the travel, hospitality & tourism industries the opportunity to connect and learn from one another, the event is indispensable.
Participants shared their perspectives and take-aways: * “I truly enjoyed myself at this forum. The conversations held were heart-felt and intelligent. The connections I made there were relevant and rewarding! I am looking forward to following up with everyone next week.” Carolyn Dia, Account Executive, ZON * “What a terrific meeting today. Thank you TIEWN team for creating a fantastic event. The topic was relevant, informative and fun! And I met lots of great executives!!” Josephine Falvo, Director, Meadowood * “I felt like I’d been given a rare necklace of pearls of wisdom and power when I walked out the door of TIEWN on Wednesday!” Paula Argento, Managing Director, Argento Ventures / BLLA Board Member
Interested parties who fit the member profile may request membership through LinkedIn by searching for the group, The Travel Industry Executive Women’s Network.
The official website for this event is www.tiewn.com
