2024 Women in Travel & Hospitality Conference

Day 2: March 7th Agenda

9:00 - 11:00 AM

Bogie’s

Breakfast

11:00 - 11:50 AM

Provence Room

Welcome

Ariela Kiradjian, Partner & COO, BLLA and Co-Founder, StayBoutique

11:50 AM - 12:40 PM

Provence Room

Fostering Female Leadership in Hotel Ownership and Development

Sponsored by Nestle Premium Waters and Miles Partnership

Explore the critical influence of women in the realms of hotel ownership and development, emphasizing their contributions and leadership within these sectors. This panel examines the unique challenges and achievements of women navigating these fields, offering insights into overcoming industry-specific barriers. Discover how female leadership is driving change and promoting diversity and inclusion in hotel business practices. Hear from experienced women hotel owners and developers as they recount their journeys, provide strategic advice, and discuss the support networks vital for women aspiring to excel in these areas. Engage in this empowering session, contributing to a future where women's leadership in hotel ownership and development is recognized and esteemed.

Marina MacDonald, Chief Marketing Officer, Red Roof Inn

Tina Burnett, Chief Development Officer, G6 Hospitality

Marissa Ballan, Head of Development, Radisson Blu, Choice Hotels International

Frances Kiradjian, Founder & CEO, BLLA & TIEWN

12:40 - 12:55 PM

Provence Room

A Regenerative Approach to Hospitality

Sponsored by Destinations of Distinction

Andrea Nicholas Perdue, CEO, Wagonhound Holdings

Ariela Kiradjian, Partner & COO, BLLA and Co-Founder, StayBoutique

12:55 - 1:35 PM

Provence Room

Mentorship Circles

WELLNESS: Darlene Cordero & Tracy Lee Campbell

PERSONAL FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT: Angela Setters Bessard

SURVIVING ENTREPRENEURSHIP: Frances Kiradjian

HOTEL OPERATIONS: Sara Masterson

BRANDING: Tracy Georgiou

1:35 - 3:00 PM

Bogie’s

Lunch

3:00 - 3:30 PM

Provence Room

How to Protect Your Brand Workshop

Nicole Swartz, Founder, Sprout Law

3:00 - 3:30 PM

Fairway Room

The Rise of the Solo Female Traveler

Mandy Murry, CEO, Hospitality Concierge

3:30 - 4:00 PM

Provence Room

Pathfinders: Pioneering Approaches in Travel Marketing

Sponsored by Miles Partnership and Destinations of Distinction

This panel is a cutting-edge panel discussion exploring innovative strategies in travel marketing, focusing on digital advancements and the use of emerging technologies like AR/VR and AI. Our expert panelists, including marketing gurus and industry veterans, will delve into sustainable marketing practices and techniques for engaging new generations of travelers. This session promises to provide valuable insights for travel marketers, industry professionals, and enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the future of travel marketing and its evolving landscape.

Kristen Moore, CEO, Destinations of Distinction

Melissa Cherry, SVP / Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer, Miles Partnership

Sarah Dandashy, Founder, Ask a Concierge

4:00 - 4:20 PM

Provence Patio

Break

4:20 - 4:50 PM

Provence Room

The Journey of Masterful Communication

Sponsored by Greenberg Traurig

This panel explores the vital role of effective communication in leadership, emphasizing that this skill is developed through dedicated practice. This panel brings together renowned leaders who have mastered communication in various settings, from intimate board meetings to digital platforms like LinkedIn. They will share strategies for engaging with diverse audiences and the importance of evolving communication skills to meet different environments. Ideal for aspiring and established leaders, this session offers insights into enhancing communication for impactful leadership.

Robin Kennedy, EVP & Chief Development Officer, Montage International

Claudia Vecchio, President & CEO, Sonoma County Tourism

Rydhima Shah Brar, Founder & Principal, Rterior Studio

4:50 - 5:05 PM

Provence Room

Demystifying Fundraising for Women-Led Ventures

Sponsored by Greenberg Traurig

Join us for an exclusive conversation with a trailblazing female entrepreneur in the travel industry as she shares her remarkable journey and insights on successfully securing funding for her venture. Drawing from her experience, this discussion offers a unique opportunity to delve into the strategies and challenges she faced in raising capital to drive her travel business forward. Whether you're a fellow entrepreneur seeking inspiration or someone interested in the travel industry, this talk promises invaluable lessons and firsthand wisdom on navigating the fundraising landscape. Don't miss the chance to hear from this accomplished leader who has charted her course in the world of travel entrepreneurship.

Grace McBride, Founder & CEO, LUCIA

Ariela Kiradjian, COO, BLLA and Co-Founder, StayBoutique

5:05 - 5:35 PM

Provence Room

Hospitality Heroines: Women at the Helm of Hotel Management

Sponsored by Nestle Premium Waters

This is a panel dedicated to celebrating and exploring the achievements of female general managers in the hotel industry. This session spotlights the challenges, triumphs, and unique perspectives of women who have risen to leadership roles in a traditionally male-dominated field. Our panelists, esteemed female general managers from various hotel chains, will share their journeys, highlighting the skills and strategies that helped them succeed. They will discuss the importance of mentorship, the power of networking, and the need for more inclusive policies in the hospitality sector. This panel aims to inspire and empower current and aspiring female leaders in hotel management, offering actionable advice and insights into navigating the industry. Join us to hear the stories of these trailblazing women and learn how they are changing the landscape of hotel leadership.

Mary Rogers, Managing Director, Montage Laguna Beach, Montage Healdsburg and Pendry San Diego

Heidi Miersemann, General Manager, Alila Napa Valley

Nile Tuzun, Founder & CEO, Studio Nilebrand

5:35 - 6:45 PM

Fairway Room

Closing Circle

6:45 - 8:45 PM

Provence Patio

After Party