Travel Network Group chief operating officer Lisa Henning received the Leader of Change Award for her efforts to drive best practice, greater employee engagement and productivity, and innovation across the consortium.
The everywoman panel were impressed by her “constant drive and desire” to deliver for members and cement TTNG’s position “as the UK’s leading travel consortium”.
Meanwhile, former Thomas Cook resourcing manager UK and Ireland, Hayley Goddard, was named Tomorrow’s Leader, the award sponsored by TTG Media recognising women under 30 making a significant contribution to the sector, with everywoman specifically highlighting Goddard’s ability to spot new talent.
Receiving her award, Goddard took the opportunity to thank the sector for its support following the collapse of Thomas Cook in September.
The International Inspiration Award was given to Indira Gurung, treasurer of the executive board of SASANE – the organisation she co-founded to support and empower fellow female survivors of human trafficking.
Deborah Potts, direct and head of marketing at Summit Advisory, received the first everywoman Disruptor Award, recognising the efforts of women in travel to challenge the status quo in an unconventional and innovative way.
The judges singled out Potts’ expertise in the world of travel M&A after starting her career as a Club 18-30 rep and going on to establish a multi-million pound tour operator.
Komal Tekchandani, head of IT and business change at Heathrow airport, was named overall Woman of the Year; Susannah Cery of Our Tribe Travels Pioneer of the Year; and there was special recognition for easyJet chief operating officer Chris Browne, who received The Spirit of everywoman Award.
Other winners included:
- Above & Beyond Award: Jean Cook, depot administrator, Great Western Railway
- Entrepreneur Award: Karen Ross, managing director, In2action
- Executive Leader Award: Sara Pastor, managing director destinations EMEA, ADARA
- Male Agent of Change: Sean Collins, chief executive, MBNA Thames Clippers
- One to Watch: Ana Seidi, former Leeds Beckett University student now on placement as an accounts assistant at Radisson Blu
- Team Leader: Joanna Athanasiou, senior director RMCC Europe, Hilton
The everywoman in Travel Awards, sponsored by Revolut, celebrate inspirational women whose attitude, work ethic and commitment to supporting other women are making a positive impact on the sector.
Karen Gill MBE, everywoman co-founder, said: “Our research shows access to female role models is a major source of inspiration for 74% of women, who cite them as inspiration to develop their own careers.
“This is why visible female talent is essential in all industries – you can’t be what you can’t see. The travel industry has traditionally been a huge employer of women, but this is still not being reflected at a senior level.
“We firmly believe that by showcasing the success stories of this year’s winners, we can effect real change, encouraging women to progress in their careers and achieve their ambitions.”
