Maram Kokandi, who achieved recognition as KSA’s first female general manager, is now hotel manager at JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh. In this exclusive interview, she discusses the key challenges, opportunities and developments regarding women in hospitality leadership positions.
In your opinion, what are the greatest challenges and opportunities for women in hospitality leadership roles?
Women in hospitality leadership face several challenges and opportunities, which are shaped by both internal and external factors. Key challenges include complex workplace dynamics, diverse customer expectations and the struggle to maintain work-life balance. Additionally, career advancement hurdles, such as networking, visibility and mentorship, further complicate professional growth for women in leadership roles. Economic pressures, including job security concerns and persistent pay disparities, affect employees across all levels of the hospitality sector. Contextual factors such as location, industry standards, and organizational culture significantly influence the nature and severity of these challenges. However, it’s important to recognize that both men and women encounter similar obstacles in their professional journeys. By fostering understanding and inclusivity, organizations can promote collaboration that leads to innovative solutions. Ultimately, these solutions can enhance productivity, equity and employee well-being, benefiting the entire workforce within the hospitality sector.
How has women’s leadership in KSA’s hospitality industry changed?
Women’s leadership in Saudi Arabia’s hospitality industry has transformed significantly in recent years, largely due to government initiatives. Vision 2030 has played a pivotal role in promoting gender equality, which has encouraged more women to pursue leadership roles. Additionally, increased representation of women in management positions is supported by educational programs and specialized hospitality training. Moreover, changing cultural attitudes have fostered broader acceptance of women in leadership, recognizing their valuable contributions to organizational success. Networking and support systems for women are becoming more widespread, providing them with the resources to advance their careers effectively. As a result, successful female leaders are emerging, inspiring future generations to take on leadership roles. Ultimately, this progress is advancing both the hospitality industry and the broader goal of achieving gender equality in the Kingdom.
How important is job hopping in hospitality?
Job hopping is crucial in the hospitality industry, as it allows one to gain valuable experience, acquire diverse skills, gain exposure to different roles and broaden professional networks. By transitioning between jobs, women, in particular, can enhance their visibility and adaptability, which makes them more competitive for leadership positions. Furthermore, this practice fosters personal growth and confidence, helping women align their careers with their passions and long-term goals. In today’s dynamic industry, career hopping helps women stay relevant to emerging trends and challenges, boosting their professional growth. Ultimately, this approach paves the way for greater opportunities and success in their careers.
What are your plans for JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh?
As the hotel manager, my primary plans for the property focus on enhancing guest experiences through exceptional service and offerings. I aim to implement sustainable practices that reduce our environmental impact, while simultaneously optimizing operational efficiency across the board. Furthermore, staff training will be prioritized to ensure a motivated and skilled team, fostering a positive workplace culture. Additionally, I will focus on implementing effective marketing strategies to increase occupancy rates and attract a diverse clientele. Moreover, regular feedback from guests will guide continuous improvements, while community engagement initiatives strengthen our local ties and presence. Overall, my goal is to elevate the hotel’s reputation and profitability during my tenure as manager.
