Women hold half of hospitality’s jobs and a third of its leadership seats.

Women in the hospitality industry make up 51.2 percent of the global workforce but hold only 30 percent of executive roles, according to industry workforce data reported by Hospitality Investor in March 2025. Yet women are still underrepresented in ownership and senior decision-making roles,” said Lily Udomkunnatum, Managing Director, Burasiri Hotel Group, who is speaking at RISE 2026. The slow speed at which the hospitality industry has moved in terms of women in leadership will be a key topic addressed at the event with a focus on talent as opposed to gender. “I believe empowering women in hospitality isn’t just about creating opportunities, it’s about recognizing the incredible talent that’s already here. RISE 2026 is supported by SAii Laguna Phuket, the Phuket Hotels Association, UN Women, the Thai Hotels Association Southern Chapter, TDM, and Robb Report Thailand.