For years, women holding senior positions in the luxury travel sector have often found themselves in the minority at industry events. Recognizing this gap, Monika Nerger, Group Chief Information Officer at Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group and a member of Hyatt’s board of directors, initiated a dedicated retreat designed specifically for women executives in luxury travel.
Addressing the Gender Imbalance
Nerger observed that women in leadership roles within luxury hospitality frequently lacked opportunities to connect with peers facing similar challenges. “There are so few of us at the top, and we rarely get to share our experiences in a supportive environment,” Nerger stated.
To address this, she collaborated with industry colleagues to create a retreat that would offer women leaders a space to network, exchange ideas, and discuss the unique obstacles they encounter in their careers.
Inaugural Event and Participation
The first retreat took place at the Park Hyatt in New York, bringing together over 30 women from various luxury travel brands. Attendees included executives from hotel groups, travel agencies, and other related businesses. The event featured panel discussions, workshops, and informal gatherings aimed at fostering collaboration and mentorship among participants.
Focus on Professional Development
Sessions at the retreat addressed topics such as leadership strategies, work-life balance, and navigating the complexities of the luxury travel market. Participants also explored ways to support the next generation of women leaders in the industry.
“It’s about building a community where women can learn from each other and help pave the way for those who come after us,” Nerger explained.
Plans for Future Gatherings
Following the success of the initial event, organizers plan to hold the retreat annually and expand its reach to include more women from across the global luxury travel sector. The goal is to create a lasting network that empowers women leaders and promotes greater diversity at the highest levels of the industry.
