Conrad Dublin, one of the capital’s leading 5-star hotels, this week hosted an engaging panel discussion on Women in Hospitality & Leadership to mark International Women’s Day. It is the first in a series of empowering events to be hosted by the hotel, which was recently named one of the Best Workplaces for Women 2023 by the Great Place To Work scheme.

The panel discussion entitled ‘Embracing Equity - Women in Hospitality & Leadership’ was moderated by Sunday Times journalist, Jo Linehan. Attendees heard from distinguished women in the hospitality, philanthropy, and food and beverage sectors, who shared insights of the challenges and successes in their respective careers.

Anna Haugh, Owner and Chef of Myrtle Restaurant and Executive Chef of Anna Haugh at Conrad Dublin, spoke of her highly successful growth as a woman in the culinary industry. Viki Baird, Managing Director at Stillgarden Distillery, shared her experience owning one of Ireland’s most innovative distilleries.

Annette Sweeney, Senior Lecturer of Culinary Arts at TU Dublin, gave great insight into the world of culinary arts. Head of Employment at Down Syndrome Ireland Aoife Gaffney emphasised the importance of workplace equity and overcoming barriers to employment.

The audience benefitted from a wide range of topics such as the importance of diversity and inclusion as well as opportunities for growth and innovation within the industry and was followed by a Q&A which gave attendees an opportunity to further engage with the panel and gain practical tips for them to implement in their own budding careers.

Speaking at the event, Anna Haugh said: “In our business, it’s more important that we open up to diversity and give women different opportunities, women of all walks of life. I think it’s very important that we hire people and give them a chance to rise, and it's important that we take chances and gamble on people too.”

Networking was encouraged after the panel, where like-minded women connected and bonded over their interests and ambitions, with some delicious drinks and canapés including a signature cocktail using Boss Lady Gin from Stillgarden Distillery.

This event is set to be the first in what will become a series of networking events hosted in Conrad Dublin for women with flourishing careers in hospitality and leadership, highlighting the importance of networking and relationship building for the sector’s next generation.