Catering Scotland

A group of Edinburgh-based women launched a not-for-profit organisation yesterday, which seeks to recognise the challenges and opportunities available to women within the tourism sector.

Developed by representatives from organisations including, among others, the Royal Yacht Britannia, The Assembly Rooms, Edinburgh Napier University and Premier Inn, Women In Tourism aims to ‘inspire, motivate, encourage and support women within the industry’.

Susan Russell, chair of the group said: ‘The sector employs over 200,000 people across tourism-related businesses. Five years ago was it was estimated that around 60% of those working  in the sector were female and today there is little evidence to suggest that this statistic has changed.’

Announcing the first piece of work into gender equality within the tourism sector, the group launched a research project which seeks to gather opinions on topics such as leadership opportunities, career development and remuneration.

‘Much of our intelligence to date has been anecdotal, and today’s survey will help to gather a strong evidence base to lobby for gender equality across the sector,‘ continued Ms Russell.

Members of Women In Tourism includes:

• Anna Morris, The Edinburgh Address
• Diane McRae, Royal Yacht Britannia
• Jane Ali-Knight, Edinburgh Napier University
• Julie Grieve, Info Apps
•  Karen Jacques, Karen Jacques Sales and Marketing Solutions
• Lesley Judge, Smart Tourism
• Margaret McNeil, Edinburgh Tourism Action Group
• Marion Mackean, Premier Inn
• Shona Clelland, Assembly Rooms
• Susan Russell, Festivals Edinburgh

The survey is available for completion at www.womenintourism.co.uk and will close on 19^th February. Results of the survey will be published in early spring.