7^th Annual Women in Leadership Forum Returns  June 23  at the Westin St. Francis

Hotel Council of San Francisco Event Aims to Empower Women in the Hospitality Field Featuring California’s Highest-Ranking Stateswoman www.hotelcouncilsf.org Keynote Address by Eleni Kounalakis, Lieutenant Governor of California

The widely anticipated and wildly popular Women in Leadership Forum from the Hotel Council of San Francisco (www.hotelcouncilsf.org), is back for its seventh year – live and in person —  with a half-day program of networking and inspirational speakers. The event will take place Friday, June 23 (8am – 2pm) at The Westin St. Francis in San Francisco with an opening keynote address from Eleni Kounalakis, Lieutenant Governor of California. Sponsored by Alaska Airlines, the event features a “who’s who” of California leaders from the world of hospitality, travel, government, and tech. Tickets are on sale now at https://hotelcouncilsf.org/events/.

The program will feature a special lunchtime chat with LinkedIn Career Expert, Catherine Fisher. Moderating this year’s sessions is Ella Sogomonian of KRON 4, with featured speakers and participants including Brooke Jenkins, San Francisco District Attorney; Marisa Rodriguez of Union Square Alliance; Papia Gambelin of United Airlines; Jyoti Sarolia of Ellis Hospitality; Carla Murray and Keri Robinson of Marriott International.

“Every year, we strive to create a platform for women to connect, learn, and grow professionally,” said Alex Bastian, President & CEO of the Hotel Council of San Francisco. “In 2023, we’re focusing on critical issues like health, well-being, and balance in the workplace. We believe that these are essential elements for women to thrive in their careers, and we’re excited to delve into these topics.”

The event will feature keynote speeches, fireside chats, panel discussions on topics such as combatting imposter syndrome, creating a healthy work-life balance, understanding and leveraging one’s network, broadening communication and negotiation skills, and finding passion and clarifying career goals. A full detailed schedule of panels, honorees and keynote speakers will follow in the coming days.

This year, the Women in Leadership Forum will collaborate with Boys & Girls Clubs of San Francisco in support of their mission to inspire and enable all young people, especially those from disadvantaged circumstances, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring citizens. 

Each year, this gathering brings together a diverse group of professionals from various levels within the workplace and from a wide array of backgrounds,” said Bastian.  “Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from an array of curated leaders, who will share their insights, advice, and data supporting women’s career advancement and wage equality.”

Presenting sponsor for the 7^th Annual Women in Leadership is Alaska Airlines with additional support from sponsors Expedia Group, United Airlines, and Big Bus San Francisco. 

Tickets and tables for the 7^th Annual Women in Leadership Forum are on sale now at https://hotelcouncilsf.org/events/.

About the Hotel Council of San Francisco:
The Hotel Council of San Francisco is a non-profit membership-based organization advocating for the economic and social vitality of the hospitality industry in San Francisco. Their membership roster includes over 200 hotels, allied members, and partner organizations. The Hotel Council is dedicated to protecting the San Francisco hospitality industry and connecting its members to support the growth and success of the industry.