Ever wondered who’s running the show at some of the world’s top dining spots? Not from behind the kitchen counter – from behind a desk. Spoiler alert: women are leading the way in hospitality right now, and they’re sparking future generations to think outside the box. So, ahead of International Women’s Day, we spoke to the seven women taking the restaurant world by storm about their proudest achievements, their hopes for the future of women in hospitality, and how they’ve inspired inclusion throughout their careers.
Virginie Bigand, Brand Director at Riccardo Giraudi Hospitality Concepts
As the go-to person for Riccardo Giraudi’s brands around the world, Virginie works around the clock, forging partnerships for Beefbar and Knightsbridge’s Cantinetta Antinori.
What’s your proudest achievement?
I’m not a doctor saving lives, but helping people and solving problems in all sorts of situations is very rewarding.
What is your hope for the future of women in hospitality?
I hope to see more women in positions of power, recognised for their incredible talent, hard work, and leadership potential.
How have you inspired inclusion throughout your career?
I strive to promote inclusion as much as I can – for me, it’s about making sure everyone feels heard, understood, and respected.
(L) Virginie Bigand | (R) Cantinetta Antinori, Knightsbridge
Julia Dionsi, Chief Operating Officer at Paris Society
Julia is no stranger to taking on a challenge – she currently drives operational growth across three hotels and 24 restaurants, including big hitters like Gigi Paris and Girafe.
What is your proudest achievement?
Balancing a career and a family has been my greatest challenge – and my greatest pride. Rising to executive leadership while raising two children wasn’t easy, but I refused to choose between ambition and motherhood.
What is your hope for the future of women in hospitality?
I envision a future where women in hospitality lead with confidence, free from unrealistic expectations, knowing they are enough just as they are.
How have you inspired inclusion throughout your career?
Leading by example is key. True inclusion starts with representation, and I’m committed to creating environments that allow women to feel seen, valued, and empowered to rise into leadership.
(L) Julia Dionsi | (R) Gigi Paris, Paris
Ciara Jones, Group Marketing Director at Addmind Hospitality and ADMO
Ciara’s career has earned her a seat at the table in a dual role with two of the biggest lifestyle and hospitality companies in the Middle East, working across brands including CLAP, Bar du Port, Nammos, and CÉ LA VI.
What is your proudest achievement?
My proudest achievement has been trusting my instincts and taking risks in my career. After six years in London, I quit my job, booked a flight, and moved to Dubai without anything lined up. This leap of faith transformed my life.
What is your hope for the future of women in hospitality?
I hope women’s talent, leadership, and creativity are fully celebrated and empowered. Ultimately, I want women to feel that they are seen, heard, and valued for their contributions.
How have you inspired inclusion throughout your career?
I’ve worked with entrepreneurial women whose work ethic and achievements have motivated me to believe in myself. I aim to instil that same belief and passion in my team, which is made up of 90% women, fostering a culture where they feel respected.
(L) Ciara Jones | (R) CLAP, Dubai
Charlotte Delemarle, Regional Operations Manager at COYA Restaurants Group
With two decades of experience under her belt, Charlotte drives the brand’s growth, overseeing 11 COYA locations (and counting) across Europe and the Middle East.
What is your proudest achievement?
My proudest achievement is watching my team grow, take on more responsibilities, and thriving in their respective departments. Seeing their success is the greatest reward for me.
What is your hope for the future of women in hospitality?
I hope to see more mentorship programmes and continue retaining talented women. Women bring strong visions, unique perspectives, and innovation – these are qualities that drive the hospitality industry forward.
How have you inspired inclusion throughout your career?
Throughout my career, I have fostered an inclusive and diverse work environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to grow. I have mentored team members, encouraged equal opportunities, and ensured that different perspectives are heard.
(L) Charlotte Delemarle | (R) COYA, Mayfair
Monica Brown, Founder and Co-owner of Lotus Land Agency
Since launching Lotus PR in 2000 as a one-woman start-up, Monica has transformed the agency into a global powerhouse, now representing top chefs like Andrew Wong and Santiago Lastra.
What is your proudest achievement?
My proudest achievement is my duty of care, empowering our team whether they stay at Lotus or forge a career elsewhere. For me, the purpose of all of this is to nurture women in the workplace and empower them to own their individuality.
What is your hope for the future of women in hospitality?
I hope women become the common face of leadership, rather than a noticeable few.
How have you inspired inclusion throughout your career?
I inspire inclusion by being conscious of it and openly discussing where we stand. We’re not complacent – we continue to dedicate our energy to maintaining the momentum of diversity.
(L) Monica Brown | (R) A. Wong, London
Scarlett Thorpe, Global Head of Sales at Grupo Dani García
Scarlett plays a pivotal role in shaping the brand’s success, developing sales strategies for some of the most sought-after spots in Marbella, including Leña and Lobito de Mar.
What is your proudest achievement?
I’m incredibly proud to be overseeing the global sales efforts at GDC, especially at such an exciting time in our growth. Being part of a dynamic team at such an innovative brand is very exciting.
What is your hope for the future of women in hospitality?
I hope women in hospitality have equal opportunities to lead, innovate, and make their mark. I’d love to see more women in key decision-making roles across the industry.
How have you inspired inclusion throughout your career?
I’ve always prioritised making my teams feel valued, respected, and empowered, by celebrating achievements big and small and encouraging open dialogue.
