Challenges and Opportunities for Women in Business

Recent analysis from Prowess highlights that only 20% of active companies in the UK are headed by women, with female-led ventures attracting merely 5.8% of investment. Amidst these numbers, female leaders like Abigail Tan are making significant strides in their industries, navigating diverse challenges.

A Personal Connection to Hospitality

Abigail Tan’s fascination with hotels began in her childhood when she visited the bustling ambiance of a hotel in Malaysia. “I loved the smell of a hotel. Everything about it interested me,” she recalls. This early passion paved the way for a career that would span two decades and several countries, despite the challenges she faced along the way.

Breaking into the Family Business

Born into a family deeply rooted in the real estate and hospitality sectors, Tan’s journey was almost preordained. Her grandfather headed a real estate dynasty, and her father manages IGB Corporation, which oversees St Giles Hotels. Nevertheless, Tan approached her career with an independent spirit, linking her childhood experiences to her professional ambitions.

She gained her initial experience during internships while studying in Exeter, travelling to London to attend critical meetings. “That’s when I started work here at the hotel, and realised that it wasn’t time for me to go back to Malaysia yet. 20 years later, I’m still here,” she states, outlining her commitment to the business.

Adapting to New Challenges

One of Tan’s defining moments came at the age of 24, when she undertook a comprehensive rebranding project for a hotel in New York. This “baptism by fire” situation demanded her to confront the complexities of the American hospitality sector. She recalls dealing with fierce opposition from labor unions when they paused operations for renovations. “For about seven months, they camped outside our operating hotel,” she explains.

The experience tested her resilience and determination as a woman in business as she faced significant criticism in a high-pressure environment.

Leadership Style and Team Empowerment

Tan, now the chief executive of St Giles, emphasizes the importance of understanding her role as a leader. “It’s like being the conductor in a big orchestra,” she notes. Recognizing that leadership comes with its challenges, she embraces her imperfections, stating, “I’m not the perfect leader. We all make mistakes.”

She leads by fostering a culture of representation within her company, where 60% of the executive board and 80% of department heads are women, aiming for greater diversity in leadership.

Advocacy for Social Change

Taking her commitment beyond corporate matters, Abigail Tan has also initiated “Hotels with Heart,” a charity project aimed at assisting homeless individuals in reintegrating into the workforce. The initiative provides accommodation, training, and guaranteed job interviews, creating pathways for a better future.

“Everyone deserves a chance to grow and find a livelihood,” she asserts, highlighting her dedication to communal support and empowerment.

Key Takeaways for Aspiring Leaders

Abigail Tan believes that authenticity is vital in leadership. She encourages future business leaders to clearly define their values and communicate effectively to navigate conflicts. “If you are being your true self, it’s easier to run a business,” she advises.

She recommends the book “The Culture Map” as a valuable resource for understanding cultural differences in communication—a critical skill for effective leadership in a diverse industry.

Conclusion

Through her journey, Abigail Tan exemplifies the power of perseverance, innovation, and commitment to social responsibility. As she embraces her role, she continuously seeks to inspire others, ensuring that the future of the hospitality industry is not only successful but inclusive and supportive.