Middle East's Most Inspiring Women Leaders in Hospitality2024

W O R L D M A G A Z I N E Keri Watkins Shaping the Future of Real Estate and Hospitality in the Middle East “Keri emphasizes on providing practical and commercially sound legal advice.” Middle East's Mo? In?ir?g Women Leaders ? Ho?itality, 2024 VOL 10 I ISSUE 01 I 2024 Keri Watkins Partner and Co-Head of Real Estate and Hospitality Middle East Baker McKenzie

“True hospitality consists of giving the best of yourself to your guests.”

Women Shaping the Future of Hospitality I n this edition, we shine a spotlight on the remarkable women leaders who are making a profound impact in the hospitality industry across the Middle East. These inspiring individuals have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication, driving their organizations to new heights and setting new standards in the industry. We explore the strategies that have propelled these leaders to the top. From embracing cutting-edge technologies to nurturing a culture of innovation, they have shown what it takes to stay ahead in a competitive market. Their insights provide valuable lessons for aspiring leaders and established executives alike. As you read through this edition, you will find inspiration in the achievements and philosophies of these iconic women leaders. Their leadership styles, innovative approaches, and unwavering dedication to their companies’ missions offer a blueprint for success in the hospitality industry. Editor's In this edition, we delve into the journeys of these extraordinary women, exploring their unique approaches and strategies. Each profile offers a glimpse into their strategic thinking, their ability to inspire and motivate their teams, and their unwavering commitment to excellence. We are proud to present this edition, “Middle East’s Most Inspiring Women Leaders in Hospitality, 2024,” and we hope it inspires you to think about how visionary leadership can drive your own organization forward. These leaders have shown an extraordinary capacity to adapt and thrive, even in the face of challenges. Their stories are a testament to the power of visionary leadership and the impact it can have on an organization’s success. Note -Michael Wayne

C O N T E N T S O Keri Watkins Shaping the Future of Real Estate and Hospitality in the Middle East C V E R S T O R Y A R T I C L E S 14 Leading with Grace How Women are Transforming the Hospitality Industry? 18 Sustainable Hospitality Eco-Friendly Prac?ces for Modern Businesses

Middle East's Mo? In?ir?g Women Leaders ? Ho?itality, Michael Wayne 2024 Company Name Featured Person Brief Debbie Simister Global Vice President Talent Management Debbie's strategic vision in talent management is pivotal for Accor's success, particularly in attracting, developing, and retaining top talent across its prestigious brands. Accor accor.com Keri is renowned for her extensive experience in real estate, development, and hotel-related transactions, offering comprehensive counsel from due diligence to post-completion aspects. October, 2024 Keri Watkins Partner Baker & McKenzie LLP bakermckenzie.com Laura's leadership style is defined by her confidence and the empowerment of her team, particularly in promoting female representation in hospitality. IHG Hotels & Resorts ihg.com Laura Eggleton General Manager We are also available on : Liezl has the ability to streamline organizational structure in order to drive optimum results and to ensure an unfaltered focus on both topline revenue and profitability. Liezl Meier General Manager IHG Hotels & Resorts ihg.com 2024 Orsolya is a seasoned hospitality professional with over 20 years of experience in hotel operation, project management, private flight catering, restaurant and bar management. Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort hilton.com Orsolya Meszaros General Manager

Keri Watkins Shaping the Future of Real Estate and Hospitality in the Middle East Keri Watkins Partner and Co-Head of Real Estate and Hospitality Middle East Baker McKenzie Keri's primary goal is to continue to elevate the firm's regional practice, building on the strong and buoyant real estate market across the Middle East.”

I environments. This industry demands professionals who can adeptly manage high-profile deals and provide strategic guidance tailored to diverse markets. As the sector continues to evolve, the ability to balance intricate legal requirements with practical business solutions becomes increasingly important. Comprehensive Expertise in Commercial Real Estate n the real estate and hospitality sectors, the integration of specialized legal expertise is crucial for navigating complex transactions and regulatory leading transactions.” Fourteen years later, she reflects on her decision with great satisfaction, noting that she cannot envision a better environment for practicing real estate and hospitality law than in the Middle East region. Keri is specialized in a comprehensive range of services within the commercial real estate sector. The practice covers the entire real estate lifecycle, from the acquisition of land through to corporate structuring, joint ventures, project financing, development and leasing. Keri seeks to create a thriving environment where professional growth and inclusivity are central to the firm’s continued success. Strategic Leadership and Stakeholder Engagement As Partner and Co-Head, Keri oversees the delivery of high-quality services to clients, ensures the professional development of the legal team and co-leads the strategic expansion of the regional practice. This involves aligning the practice's operations with the overarching goals of both the Middle East region and Baker McKenzie's global objectives. The firm represents clients from diverse sectors such as hospitality, logistics, education, and retail. Keri particularly focuses on the hotels, resorts, and tourism (HRT) sector, where she plays an active role as part of Baker McKenzie's dedicated industry group. In this capacity, she advises hoteliers, including owners, operators, developers, and financiers, on a wide range of high-profile transactions. Keri’s team has developed a reputable hospitality practice that is recognized for its expertise in the region. Keri Watkins is a prominent leader in this field, demonstrating her remarkable blend of strategic vision and operational acumen. With a career shaped by a commitment to excellence and a proactive approach to client engagement, this individual excels in steering major transactions and fostering collaborative relationships. As a Partner and Co-Head of Real Estate and Hospitality Middle East, she is known for a forward-thinking mindset, her leadership significantly influences industry practices, ensuring that clients receive both innovative and effective solutions. Keri's role in shaping the sector highlights her dedication to advancing the field and setting high standards for professional practice. A critical component of Keri's role includes cultivating and sustaining relationships with key stakeholders such as industry peers and regulatory authorities. Her commitment to mentoring the team is evident through her dedication to creating a collaborative and innovative atmosphere that supports professional advancement. Keri also prioritizes staying informed about market shifts and regulatory updates, enabling the team to offer clients commercially astute advice on real estate and hospitality transactions. Beyond hospitality, Keri and her team support clients across the logistics, education, and retail sectors in advancing their expansion strategies throughout the Gulf region. Earlier this year, the team was involved in the largest institutional third-party single-asset real estate transaction in the UAE, reflecting the trust clients place in Baker McKenzie's capabilities. high-pressure environments, she ensures that legal guidance is provided within deadlines and aligned with the overall strategic direction of the businesses. This client-focused approach ensures that each client receives advice that is both relevant to their unique challenges and supportive of their broader business goals. The firm, Baker McKenzie, is known for its influential presence in the real estate and hospitality sectors. With a reputation for delivering top-tier legal services, it plays a pivotal role in guiding clients through the complexities of the industry. Its extensive expertise and strategic approach underpins its position as a leading authority in the Middle East, reflecting a deep commitment to addressing the unique opportunities within the market. Harnessing Industry Recognition Keri also advises on hotel management agreements and franchise agreements. The solutions provided to clients are grounded in deep industry knowledge and local market expertise, ensuring a comprehensive and reliable service offering. Vision for Career Growth and Team Expansion Baker McKenzie's regional real estate practice has achieved recognitions from Legal 500, Chambers & Partners Global, and Who’s Who Legal, the prestigious legal directories that rank and provide insights into law firms and legal professionals worldwide. Keri has also been personally ranked for her expertise – this recognition is a testament to her commitment to delivering high-caliber legal services. Keri shares, “These accolades enhance the firm’s standing as a leading force in the real estate and hospitality sectors within the Middle East, establishing a clear benchmark for quality and expertise in the industry.” Keri has set ambitious long-term objectives both for her career and the real estate and hospitality team at Baker McKenzie. Her primary goal is to continue to elevate the firm's regional practice, building on the strength of the real estate market across the Middle East. Keri shares, “My aim is to work closely with Baker McKenzie's distinguished clients, engaging in high-profile transactions and critical matters that solidify the firm's reputation in the industry.” Additionally, she plans to expand the team, with a target to double its size within the next three years. Balancing Global Standards with Local Expertise Let’s explore how Keri’s visionary leadership is transforming real estate and hospitality in the middle east through unparalleled legal expertise! Keri advises a broad spectrum of clients, including local businesses, multinational corporations, sovereign wealth funds, family offices and public institutions, by focusing on a tailored strategy that meets the specific requirements and objectives of each client. This involves a careful understanding of both the industry sector and the jurisdiction in which the clients operate. At Baker McKenzie, the team is composed of internationally and locally trained lawyers, offering a thorough grasp of global standards as well as in-depth knowledge of local regulations. A Pivotal Career Move Keri’s career trajectory has been marked by strategic decisions and key experiences that have shaped her professional journey. After spending a number of years in the United Kingdom, she made a significant decision to return to the UAE in 2010 to broaden her international professional experience. Keri shares, “This move proved to be a crucial turning point in my career, allowing me to work in a fast-paced and forward thinking jurisdiction, where I was involved in high-profile, market- Keri shares, “These honors act as a source of encouragement, motivating me to strive for continuous professional growth.” “They also fuel my commitment to supporting the advancement of emerging legal talent within the firm, particularly emphasizing my role as a mentor to the next generation of lawyers,” she added. Keri is committed to advancing the firm’s inclusion, diversity, and equity initiatives. She envisions these programs as integral to nurturing talent and shaping the future leadership of the organization. Through these efforts, Keri seeks to create a thriving environment where professional growth and inclusivity are central to the firm’s continued success. Keri emphasizes providing practical and commercially sound legal advice. Recognizing that clients operate in

Keri aims to work closely with Baker McKenzie's distinguished clients, engaging in high-profile transactions and critical matters that solidify the firm's reputation in the industry. Balancing Professional Demands with Family Life Keri manages her demanding professional responsibilities while maintaining a healthy work-life balance through careful planning and strong personal support. Keri shares, “As a mother of two young children and a wife, I recognized the importance of being well-organized and relying on my support network of family and friends, who provide invaluable assistance.” She dedicates weekend time to the preparation of the week ahead, ensuring that priorities are clearly set and everyone in the family is aligned and ready for the start of the week. Additionally, Keri incorporates a daily routine that includes an early wake up with the children before she does the school drop-off, and at least 30 minutes of personal time each morning, which helps her recharge and mentally prepare for the day. This period of reflection, often accompanied by a cappuccino and a morning gratitude journal, allows her to start each day with focus and clarity. Guiding Future Legal Professionals Keri offers valuable guidance to students aspiring to pursue a career in law. She emphasizes, “It is important to build a solid legal foundation during law school, with a deep understanding of the doctrines and policies relevant to one’s chosen area of specialization.” In addition, “Developing meaningful relationships through networking with professionals and peers is also essential,” she added. She encourages students to gain practical experience in the legal sector, whether through internships, volunteering, or shadowing legal professionals, as these opportunities provide invaluable insights and skills. Additionally, she advises, “Aspiring students should stay well-informed about industry trends and develop an understanding of the business side of the law.” "Hospitality means primarily the creation of free space where the stranger can enter and become a friend instead of an enemy.”

Leading with Grace How Women are Transforming the Hospitality Industry? T indeed changing the dynamics of the industry with novel ideas and ways of doing things. This article looks at how women transform the hospitality industry and lead with class for the generations to come. he hospitality industry, which had been led for so long by males, is now witnessing an unprecedented shift: women are leading it. It's Let’s advocate for gender equality in the hospitality industry by speaking up for policies more inclusive, promoting women into leadership, and helping to create a better balance in the industry, where everyone contributes innovatively. Breaking Barriers There is a huge challenge for women in the hospitality industry. The current scenario is that women are being biased on grounds of gender, and there is no space for scaling up. Nevertheless, overcoming such barriers has also broken many glass ceilings and displayed resilience and determination. Breaking through stereotypes and espousing equal opportunities contribute much to the industry. Their success inspires others to make their way to leadership roles and help bring about change. Assuring Customer Experience Customer experience is among the leading areas where women are working to make a difference. It helps in being better because of their empathetic nature and attention to detail, where they render quality services that superbly differ from what most customers would expect. Women leaders have a higher focus on customer satisfaction and take some time to create a friendly and welcoming environment for customers. This boosts loyalty and helps in generating profitability. October 2024 | 14 | womenworldmagazine.com October 202 | 4 15 | womenworldmagazine.com

October 2024 | 16 | womenworldmagazine.comS Today, a new standard of understanding and meeting customers' needs is set through women in leadership in the hospitality industry. industry encourage policies that recognize the need to achieve work-life balance through supportive flexible working conditions and parental leaves. These are beneficial for women employees but also make the work environment better and more productive as a whole. Thus, there is a good chance of retaining exceptionally talented women and improving job satisfaction at all organizational levels. Advocating Diversity and Inclusion Great importance is attached to the growth and success of any industry. Increasing diversification and inclusion will be the best approach for women leaders in hospitality. In fact, the values of diversity and inclusion represent an important aspect of promoting diverse hiring practices and inclusive workplace cultures. This further develops environments where everyone around feels valued and respected, which will then increase the level of satisfied and retained employees. Again, this represents a larger customer base because it is part of the diverse society in which we are living. Still, the gender pay gap and women in senior management hold are some of the issues women are faced with in hospitality. All stakeholders need to make these issues a priority. Organizations have to commit to open and transparent pay practices. They also have to keep opening career ascents for ladies. The only way through which this industry will continue moving forward on the path of forward expansion is when it knocks out such challenges head-on. Driving Innovation The Future of Women in Hospitality Innovating is the key that keeps hospitality institutions competitive. In their substance, women leaders bring totally different and innovative solutions to the table. Their ability to use creativity and think "outside the box" means harnessing new technologies to achieve efficiency and innovation. It ranges from adopting sustainable practices to using transformative technology. Therefore, women are key players in transforming the industry, as their innovative approaches improve operations while also improving the total guest experience. Future Promises The future looks bright for women in the hospitality sector. Women's mobilization towards leadership gradually impacts and benefits everyone connected with it. A success will set up a powerful model before young girls and women, as they can also have their dreams fulfilled. Long-term change and ways to a better-balanced industry will be driven by ongoing advocacy for equality, embracing innovations, and mutual support among women. Therefore, women change the hospitality industry from its barriers to more diversity, innovation, and work-life balance for a better customer experience. Their leadership paving way for future generations to lead in an approach that is both more inclusive and innovative guarantees that the hospitality industry will continuously strive and prosper. Mentorship and Support Indeed, mentorship is very significant in the female hospitality career development process. Experienced leaders guide people to enter their vocations while supporting and providing firsthand, great insight for others in navigating their careers. A mentorship program builds up a whole network of support, providing a sense of community and collaboration, thereby able to share one's experiences and knowledge to empower future generations. The culture of mentorship is essentially necessary to ensure that progress remains sustainable, and growth continues. Work-life balance Most women face the significant challenge of achieving a work-life balance. Leading women in the hospitality

Sustainable Hospitality N owadays, awareness about environment conservation is paramount and the hospitality industry is embracing eco-friendly practices to reduce its ecological footprint. Sustainable hospitality not only benefits the environment but also enhances guest satisfaction and operational efficiency. This article explores various eco-friendly practices that modern businesses in the hospitality sector can adopt to promote sustainability. Eco-Friendly Practices for Modern Businesses Take the first step towards sustainability by integrating eco- friendly practices into your hospitality business! Energy Efficiency Energy efficiency is a cornerstone of sustainable hospitality. Modern businesses can significantly reduce their energy consumption by implementing various measures. Installing energy-efficient lighting, such as LED bulbs, can drastically cut down on electricity usage. Additionally, using smart thermostats and energy management systems helps optimize heating and cooling, ensuring that energy is not wasted. Incorporating renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, can further reduce reliance on non-renewable energy. Water Conservation Water conservation is another critical aspect of sustainable hospitality. Businesses can install low-flow fixtures, such as faucets and showerheads, to reduce water usage without compromising guest comfort. Implementing greywater recycling systems allows for the reuse of water from sinks and showers for non- potable purposes like irrigation. Encouraging guests to participate in water-saving initiatives, such as reusing towels and linens, can also make a substantial difference. Waste Reduction Reducing waste is essential for sustainable operations. Hospitality businesses can start by minimizing October 2024 | 18 | womenworldmagazine.com October 202 | 4 19 | womenworldmagazine.com

“Courteous treatment will make a customer a walking advertisement.” single-use plastics and opting for biodegradable or reusable alternatives. Implementing comprehensive recycling programs ensures that waste is properly sorted and recycled. Composting organic waste from kitchens and restaurants can further reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills. Educating staff and guests about waste reduction practices fosters a culture of sustainability. environmental initiatives, such as tree planting or beach clean-ups, and encourage guests to participate. Partnering with local organizations to promote cultural and eco-tourism helps preserve local heritage and natural resources. Community engagement not only enhances the guest experience but also strengthens the business’s commitment to sustainability. Technology Integration Sustainable Sourcing Integrating technology can enhance sustainability efforts in the hospitality industry. Smart room controls allow guests to manage lighting, temperature, and water usage efficiently. Digital check-in and check-out processes reduce paper waste. Additionally, using data analytics to monitor and optimize resource usage can lead to more efficient operations. Technology not only improves sustainability but also enhances the overall guest experience. Sustainable sourcing involves procuring products and services that have a minimal environmental impact. This can include sourcing locally produced food and beverages, which reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation. Choosing suppliers that adhere to sustainable practices, such as using eco- friendly packaging and ethical labor practices, also contributes to overall sustainability. By prioritizing sustainable sourcing, businesses can support local economies and reduce their environmental impact. Employee Training Green Building Practices Employee training is vital for the successful implementation of eco-friendly practices. Providing staff with training on sustainability initiatives ensures that they understand and support the business’s goals. Regular workshops and training sessions can keep employees informed about new practices and technologies. Empowering staff to contribute ideas and solutions fosters a culture of sustainability within the organization. Adopting green building practices is crucial for creating sustainable hospitality environments. This includes using eco-friendly construction materials, such as recycled or sustainably sourced wood, and incorporating energy-efficient designs. Green roofs and walls can improve insulation and reduce energy consumption. Additionally, ensuring proper insulation and using double-glazed windows can enhance energy efficiency. Green building certifications, such as LEED, can guide businesses in implementing these practices. Conclusion Eco-friendly practices are essential for modern businesses in the hospitality industry. By focusing on energy efficiency, water conservation, waste reduction, sustainable sourcing, green building practices, eco- friendly transportation, community engagement, technology integration, and employee training, businesses can significantly reduce their environmental impact. These practices not only benefit the environment but also enhance guest satisfaction and operational efficiency. Eco-Friendly Transportation Promoting eco-friendly transportation options can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of hospitality businesses. Providing guests with information about public transportation, bike rentals, and electric vehicle charging stations encourages sustainable travel. Offering shuttle services with electric or hybrid vehicles can further reduce emissions. By making eco- friendly transportation accessible, businesses can contribute to a cleaner environment. Community Engagement Engaging with the local community is an integral part of sustainable hospitality. Businesses can support local October 2024 | 20 | womenworldmagazine.com

Middle East's Most Inspiring Women Leaders in Hospitality2024

Middle East's Most Inspiring Women Leaders in Hospitality2024

Presentation Transcript

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