The 2025 Women Leading Travel & Hospitality Summit is shaping up to be our most dynamic gathering yet — a space where inspiring leaders, trailblazers, and changemakers in travel and hospitality come together to share stories, strategies and solutions. This year’s lineup of panel discussions brings together some of the brightest minds in the industry to tackle timely topics that are reshaping our businesses and careers. Here’s a preview of what to expect on stage:

Adapting to New Industry Trends and Consumer Demands

The travel and hospitality landscape is evolving fast, and businesses must keep pace with shifting consumer expectations and market dynamics. This panel will dive into today’s most critical trends — from sustainability and personalization to tech adoption and changing guest behaviors. Hear from forward-thinking leaders who are not only responding to these trends but are turning them into opportunities to elevate both the customer and employee experience.

Speakers:

  • Sheretha Bell, Senior Vice President, Marketing and Brand Strategy, Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau
  • Katty Byrd, Senior Vice President of Guest Services, Norwegian Cruise Line
  • Carolyne Truelove, Vice President of Reservations and Service Recovery, American Airlines
  • Ashli Johnson, Founder, Hospitality Hued (Moderator)

Charting Tech and Innovation Road Maps in Travel and Hospitality

Innovation is no longer optional; it’s the cornerstone of success in a competitive market. This must-attend session brings together trailblazing executives who are redefining how technology is used in travel and hospitality. From artificial intelligence and automation to immersive technologies like virtual and augmented reality, this conversation will explore how to lead tech transformation within your organization and navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape.

Speakers:

  • Jodie Brinkerhoff, Vice President of Innovation, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport
  • Jolie Fleming, Chief Product and Technology Officer, IHG Hotels & Resorts
  • Janette Roush, Senior Vice President, Innovation, and Chief AI Officer, Brand USA
  • Heather Winkle, Vice President, Digital Experience, Delta Airlines
  • Brunnhilde Wijnaar, Assistant Vice President, Resort Operations Technology, Marriott Vacations Worldwide (Moderator)

The Women Behind the Curtain

What happens behind the scenes makes all the difference on the guest-facing front. This panel pulls back the curtain on roles in event technology, hotel operations, and venue management. These leaders will share their behind-the-scenes experiences, discuss how to grow your career in often-overlooked areas of the industry, and explain why leadership support and mentorship are key to advancement in these essential roles.

Speakers:

  • Hali Cooper, Vice President, Strategic Partnerships, Encore
  • Jan Lucas, Vice President, Strategic Sourcing and Partnerships, Sage Hospitality Group
  • Kelly Toboja, Corporate Director of Events, Hyatt

C-Suite Women Share Their Journey to the Top of Travel and Hospitality

Get ready to be inspired. This powerful panel features top executives who have broken barriers, navigated tough leadership moments, and forged successful paths to the C-suite. Expect candid stories, invaluable leadership insights, and actionable advice on advancing your career. You’ll also hear their take on how to foster a more inclusive and diverse future for our industry.

Speakers:

  • Judith Apshago, Chief Digital Officer, Amtrak
  • Dina Belon-Sayre, President, Staypineapple Hotels
  • Anneliesse Cooper, Chief Human Resources Officer, Atrium Hospitality
  • Romie Mushtaq, MD, Chief Wellness Officer, Great Wolf Resorts
  • Cindy Solomon, Founder, CEO and President, Courageous Leadership Institute (Moderator)

Whether you’re looking to future-proof your business, grow your leadership skills, or connect with fellow women driving change, these panels promise to deliver the insights and inspiration you need. We can’t wait to welcome you to the 2025 Women Leading Travel & Hospitality Summit, happening June 9-11 in Atlanta!

Stay tuned for more speaker announcements and agenda highlights!