I was very proud to stand alongside some real industry pioneers this week as the Association of Women Travel Executives named its 60 for 60 to celebrate its diamond anniversary.
The list included many high-profile female executives who have made a real impact on the industry over the last sixty years.
But as the 118 nominations demonstrate, there are many more women beyond the list who would be equally deserving of such an accolade.
In an industry with such a high proportion of women, it is great that those who have reached the top are celebrated.
But if acknowledging their success is the first step, the second must be ensuring that gender really isn’t a defining factor for the next generation of travel bosses.
We are very fortunate to have business leaders such as Harriet Green, Carolyn McCall, Chris Browne and Julia Lo Bue-Said demonstrating on a daily basis that strong leadership has nothing to do with gender.
And the AWTE is right to stress how important it is to ensure the next generation of inspiring young women believe that the industry is a fitting place to build a long and successful career.
In my job, I am fortunate to meet the many young people who are the beating heart of our industry. And I am proud to say that I am constantly impressed by their passion, intelligence and drive.
Hopefully we have reached a stage where gender won’t be a barrier to their progress. Male or female, we must ensure genuine talent has the chance to thrive