Female hoteliers launch inspirational Leading Ladies of London group

Three female hoteliers have joined together to launch a women-only group in an attempt to encourage more female leaders into the hotel industry.

Debrah Dhugga, general manager of Dukes London, Anne-Marie Dowling, general manager of Guoman’s The Royal Horseguards Hotel, and Theresa Maw, general manager of Renaissance Chancery Court Hotel have launched The Leading Ladies of London group, which is only available to leading female figures and women heading five-star hotels in the capital.

The trio plan to bring together a group of women other female leaders can relate to through regular meetings at which industry demands, business issues, ideas and best practice would be discussed.

The ultimate aim of the group is to inspire members to achieve greatness in an industry that is traditionally dominated by men.

Dhugga, said: “We’re not suggesting that it is any more difficult for women to reach the top within London hospitality, as we’re living examples of those that have been successful, it’s just less common to see a female general manager than a male in that position. Leading Ladies of London aims to inspire other women to have a share of voice in the industry and achieve their maximum potential – as three successful leaders of prominent five-star hotels in London, we know first-hand what an impact we can make.”

The launch of the group comes just weeks after the launch of People 1st’s inaugural Women 1st Top 100 Most Influential Women in the Hospitality, Leisure, Travel and Tourism industry, which featured Dowling amongst other leading names such as Hotel Inspector Alex Polizzi and Vivien Sirotkin, director of hotel operations for Q hotels.

Those interested in becoming a member should contact Claudine Roth on 02077491 4840 or email claudineroth (at) dukeshotel.com.