Compass involved in The Global Female Leadership programme

The Global Female Leaders programme is aimed at high potential female leaders working in hospitality, travel, leisure and retail, who are mid to senior mangers, and is designed to provide a series of experiences and opportunities to support career progression.

The ten-session programme created by WiTHL (Diversity in Travel, Hospitality and Leisure) aims to identify the challenges facing women who wish to progress to the highest levels of leadership and provides advice and practical strategies to overcome them.

This cohort sees Nathalie Ford, Operations Director for Healthcare and Caroline Rutter, Head of Development, taking part. Jane Byrd, Managing Director for Compass Cymru and Lisa Priestley, Business Director for Chartwells are mentors on the programme supporting other external participants through their development.

Jane Byrd said: “Throughout my career I have been lucky enough to work with some inspiring, experienced and knowledgeable role models, so it’s really amazing to be asked to take part in this programme to now help someone else develop in their career. These kind of programmes play a crucial part in career and personal development helping with everything from confidence, building networks and supporting people to think more strategically. I am really looking forward to taking part.”

Natalie is excited to be joining and said: “I believe The Global Female Leader programme will provide a valuable avenue to learn from others more experienced in operating in this arena. I believe an essential factor of growth, personally, professionally and as a business is to be open to change and to be able to recognise opportunities as they arise, and have the confidence and conviction to pursue them.”

Caroline added: “This programme would allow me to network and learn from other women in similar situations, which will ultimately enhance my ability and support me on my journey to become a C-Suite future leader. Imposter syndrome used to hold me back, but I now think of it as a positive. If I’m not feeling out of my comfort zone, then I’m not challenging myself – ‘struggle on purpose’.”