Jillian MacLean to be keynote speaker at women in hospitality event

Women 1st, part of the Sector Skills Council People 1st, has announced that Drake & Morgan founder Jillian MacLean will be the keynote speaker at its forthcoming networking event for women in hospitality.

The event, to be held on 27 September at the Anthologist in Moorgate, City of London, aims to give women working in the capital's hospitality, leisure, travel and tourism (HLTT) sector the inspiration, guidance and networking opportunities to support their career prospects.

MacLean is expected to speak about the challenges of setting up a business in the current economic climate as well as the proactive steps women in HLTT can take to achieve their career aspirations.

In addition to key members of her management team, she will be joined by Jodi Goldman, the Women 1st image and impact specialist, who will talk about perfecting communication skills and dressing to impress.

People 1st launched Women 1st after it found that while women make up nearly 60% of the workforce in hospitality, they represent only 6% of director-level positions.

Sharon Glancy, founder of Women 1st, said: "The Olympics is just under a year away and the HLTT sector in the capital must maximise the business opportunities during this window of opportunity by recruiting and retaining the finest talent. Women 1st has supported 400 women since its inception less than two years ago and has secured additional funding to support a further 300 talented managers.

"Our London networking event will inspire and encourage females to emulate the success of leading personalities in our sector, such as Jillian, recently voted Entrepreneur of the Year in the Shine Awards, and accomplish their own career aspirations in our vibrant industry."

A limited number of tickets are available priced £20. Register here.

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By Janie Stamford

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