The Women in Trade Associations Powerlist 2024 has recognised three female leaders from Abta, highlighting their significant contributions to the travel sector.
- Angie Hills, Vicki Wolf, and Emma Brennan have been celebrated for their roles in championing their sector and supporting their colleagues.
- The honour was announced on International Women’s Day and marks the second year of the powerlist, aiming to highlight inspirational women in trade associations.
- Angie Hills is instrumental in providing crisis support and non-competitive guidance in destination safety and operations.
- Vicki Wolf focuses on educational development, while Emma Brennan excels in media communications during critical tourism incidents.
The recognition of these three prominent figures within Abta by the Women in Trade Associations Powerlist 2024 serves as a testament to their outstanding contributions to their respective fields. Released on International Women’s Day, the powerlist is in its second iteration and continues to celebrate women who not only excel in their roles but also uplift others within their industry.
Angie Hills, as the head of destinations at Abta, has been pivotal in steering the organisation through crises, offering vital support and advice to members. Her leadership is exemplified by the coordination during the wildfires in Rhodes and Corfu, where she facilitated crucial discussions between Abta members and governmental bodies to ensure a collective response. Hills remarked on the recognition saying, “Being named on the powerlist is a wonderful endorsement of our work at Abta to support our members not just during a crisis but with other important aspects of their business.”
Vicki Wolf’s role as the head of education and career development highlights her commitment to nurturing future talent in the travel industry. By forming a working group in response to potential government cuts in post-16 travel and tourism education funding, Wolf and her team devised a proactive solution pending regulatory approval. Her statement, “I’m passionate about giving youngsters the necessary training to develop skills so they can enjoy a rewarding career in the travel industry,” underscores her dedication to advancing educational opportunities.
Emma Brennan, in her capacity as head of media and communications, has established a strong media presence, particularly during high-pressure situations. Her adept handling of the media in the wake of the Greek wildfires and air traffic control disruptions illustrates her capability in managing public relations and maintaining clear communication on behalf of Abta members. Brennan’s frequent appearances on national broadcasts affirm her role as a reliable spokesperson for the association.
The achievements of Angie Hills, Vicki Wolf, and Emma Brennan underscore the significant impact of female leadership within trade associations, inspiring continued advancement and support across the industry.
