Diversity in hospitality

Claudia Klingbiel, Director of Public Relations & Marketing, Sun Siyam Resorts, talks about various opportunities empowering women to become leaders in hospitality.

TT Bureau

Talking about the current global hospitality industry and the contribution of women in it, Claudia Klingbiel, Director of Public Relations & Marketing, Sun Siyam Resorts, says, “In today’s global hospitality industry, the role of women is increasingly vital and celebrated. Hospitality offers a diverse array of career opportunities for women, making it an essential sector for female empowerment and professional growth. Hospitality is not only important as a career path for women but also serves as a dynamic and inclusive industry where women can thrive and excel. With its diverse range of roles spanning from management and operations to guest services and culinary
arts, hospitality offers women the opportunity to showcase their skills, creativity, and leadership abilities.”

She continues, “Over recent years, there has been a noticeable trend of more youth, including women, opting for careers in hospitality. This shift can be attributed to various factors, including the industry’s reputation for offering dynamic and fast-paced work environments, opportunities for career advancement, and the increasing recognition of the importance of diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. However, despite the growing interest from young women, there are still challenges when it comes to retaining skilled women leaders in hospitality. Issues such as work-life balance, gender bias, and limited opportunities for career progression can deter women from staying in leadership roles within the industry. To address these challenges, hospitality organizations must prioritize creating inclusive work cultures, offering mentorship and development programs, and providing pathways for advancement for women at all levels.”

The various programmes to mentor and empower women is growing in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates etc. Klingbiel continued, “Supporting and empowering women in hospitality requires a multifaceted approach. Key criteria include promoting gender diversity in leadership positions, implementing policies and practices that support work-life balance, providing access to professional development and training opportunities, and fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect.”

In conclusion, Klingbiel reiterated, “The contribution of women to hospitality is significant and multifaceted. Women play vital roles in all aspects of the industry, from management and operations to guest services, culinary arts, and beyond. Their contributions bring unique perspectives, creativity, and innovation to the table, enriching the hospitality experience for guests and colleagues alike.”