The Inclusion Summit returns for a fifth year!

2026 Women to Watch Index for Hospitality, Travel, Leisure and Retail

Now in its eighth year, the 2026 Women to Watch in Hospitality, Travel, Leisure and Retail Index, produced in partnership with The MBS Group supported by Q5, shines a spotlight on the incredible women making an impact across our industry.

By showcasing the diverse roles and career paths of senior women leaders, the Index not only celebrates their achievements but also serves as an inspiration for future generations of women looking to join, progress and lead across our sectors.

Explore the full 2026 Women to Watch Index and celebrate the inspiring women leading and shaping the future across Hospitality, Travel, Leisure and Retail.

Request your copy of the 2026 Index

The 2026 Women to Watch Index Launch

The event opened with remarks from Tea Colaianni, Founder and Chair of WiHTL & DiR, alongside insights from Elliott Goldstein, Managing Partner at The MBS Group, and Dan Upward, Global Partner – Retail, Consumer & Leisure at Q5.

Guests also heard from an inspiring panel of women featured in the Index: Laila Abdin-Winter, Brand & Communications Director at Warner Hotels; Chloe Friend, IT Director at P&O Ferries; Louise Rix, Chief Retail Officer at DFS; and Michelle Wilkinson, Executive Vice President of HR, Global Tommy Hilfiger & PVH EMEA. The discussion was moderated by Joanna Aunon, Inclusion & Leadership Advisory Director at WiHTL & DiR.

The evening also featured a guest address from Paul Pomroy, Chief Executive Officer at Warner Hotels.

Relive some of the special moments in the gallery from the launch of the 2026 Women to Watch Index, celebrating the remarkable women shaping the future of Hospitality, Travel, Leisure and Retail.