South Africa's Hospitality Sector Leads in Gender Equity Progress

In a significant leap towards gender equality, South Africa's hospitality sector has surpassed its 2030 employment equity target, with women from designated groups holding 47.3% of senior management roles. This achievement positions hospitality ahead of many other sectors, including human health and education, which are also striving for similar equity goals.

Despite this progress, there remains a gap at the top management level, where women account for only 36.2% of positions, falling short of the 38.1% target set for 2030. As the sector prepares for a new evaluation of employment equity, starting September 1, more than 800 employers representing nearly 200,000 employees will be scrutinized for their adherence to annual targets.

Sandra Kneubuhler, Managing Director for Sub-Saharan Africa at Radisson Hotel Group, emphasizes the importance of continuous development initiatives in closing the leadership gap. "Development is essential for this sector," she states, highlighting that many team members begin their careers at the grassroots level. Kneubuhler notes that flexible work arrangements and supportive environments have been pivotal in fostering female leadership.

Radisson Hotel Group has filled 40% of its vacancies internally, boasting 31% of women in leadership roles, with a goal to achieve gender parity by 2030. Kneubuhler advocates for recognizing potential beyond conventional experience, as exemplified by Alison McKie, General Manager of Radisson Collection Hotel, who entered management from a strategic background.

Elmarie Fritz, General Manager at Radisson Blu Hotel, echoes this sentiment, advocating for proactive identification of talent. She reflects on her own career development, stating, "Career growth should not be reserved only for those who naturally put themselves forward." The unpredictable nature of hospitality work, as highlighted by Duduzile Nxumalo, General Manager of Park Inn by Radisson Polokwane, adds complexity for women managing both career and family.

Rochell Schonken, Country Director of Sales for South Africa, emphasizes that flexibility, mentorship, and supportive leadership are key to retaining women in senior roles. As the sector edges closer to its 2030 goals, Kneubuhler remains optimistic about the future: "We have the right programmes and people in place, so I am confident that we will achieve that."

Source: www.getaway.co.za