This year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Give to Gain,” really resonates with us. At its heart, it’s about the simple but powerful idea that when we give our time, knowledge, support, or opportunities, everyone benefits. When women thrive, teams are stronger, businesses grow, and communities move forward together.
At GB Hospitality, giving is something we try to live by every day. As a female-led team, we focus on sharing our knowledge and experience to help colleagues and clients grow, investing time in mentoring, celebrating wins (big or small) and creating opportunities for development. Whether supporting internal projects or helping clients achieve their goals, giving in this way strengthens relationships and drives results.
We’re particularly proud that our Managing Director, Gaynor, serves on the Northern Hospitality Action Board and as a Trustee for La Salle Hotel School, all on a volunteer basis. She also contributes her expertise as a judge, helping to showcase and celebrate talent across a range of industries.
For Lianne and Hannah, they ensure that they balance their roles alongside raising families — bringing perspective, empathy, and of course, excellent organisation to everything we do! Lianne also volunteers as a Section Leader at Beavers, giving additional time to supporting young people in the community.
And giving doesn’t stop at work. We’re big believers in making space for life outside of it too – time for family, friends, and ourselves. That balance keeps creativity flowing, relationships strong, and people feeling supported, both personally and professionally.
We’re also lucky to work with so many brilliant female owners & leaders across our client portfolio, women who lead with vision, shape their industries, and inspire change in everything they do.
In honour of International Women’s Day, we’re proud to spotlight some of the incredible women clients who continue to break barriers and drive innovation.
Argyle – Chantelle Wood
HR Director at Argyle, Chantelle brings strong leadership and extensive experience to the construction industry. She champions employee wellbeing and creates meaningful opportunities across the business, while also driving sustainability initiatives and leading on Argyle’s environmental and green credentials.
BANK Bar & Brasserie – Katie Wray
Katie Wray is the co-owner and General Manager of BANK Bar & Brasserie, a newly opened social space in the heart of Glossop. Although she’s new to the hospitality world, Katie has thrown herself into the role with real enthusiasm. She brings a fresh perspective, a hands-on approach, and a genuine passion for creating a warm, welcoming place for both guests and her team. Her energy and commitment have already helped shape BANK into a lively community spot where people feel at home.
Birchwood Park
Katie Skinsley – As Estate Manager, Katie ensures the park is always presented to the highest standard. She oversees landscaping and building infrastructure, maintaining the pristine condition of the estate — a role traditionally male-dominated, which she leads with professionalism and expertise.
Lesley Sutton – Operations & Sales Manager for the Catering and Events team, Lesley brings vibrancy and creativity to Birchwood Park. She drives the “surprise and delight” moments that define the hospitality experience and elevate every event.
Linda Welsby – Leasing Manager and the welcoming face of the park for all occupiers. Linda works closely with tenants to ensure they are supported, listened to, and happy in their environment.
Magda – Manager of Alive & Well, Magda is fiery, dynamic, and full of energy. As a Personal Trainer and leader of the facility, she inspires and motivates members to be the best version of themselves, fostering a culture of encouragement and wellbeing.
Suzanne Whitelaw – The custodian of the Birchwood brand philosophy, Suzanne ensures the integrity of the business DNA across every division. Working largely behind the scenes, she brings all areas of the organisation together to consistently deliver the brand vision. She is also a passionate supporter of numerous charities, including the Brianne Ghey Foundation.
Black Bull Inn Old Langho – Rebecca Govier
Rebecca is the inspiring owner of The Black Bull Inn Old Langho. She has cultivated a welcoming and dynamic hospitality experience for both her team and her guests. She views her team as an extended family, ensuring they feel supported, valued, and empowered in their roles. Beyond her leadership within the business, Rebecca is deeply rooted in the local community, actively participating in initiatives and giving back through charity events such as the Shoe Box Appeal. Alongside Becky, we’d like to give a shout out to her female-led leadership team, General Manager Becky T & Head Chef, Emma.
DV8 Designs – Alison Birchall
Alison is the glue behind DV8, making sure all the moving parts come together seamlessly. Looking after finance and HR, she keeps everything running smoothly behind the scenes so the team can focus on what they do best. Calm, organised and reliable, Alison is the steady hand that keeps DV8 on track, day in and day out.
LI~LY Restaurant by Aiden Byrne – Sarah Byrne
Co-owner of the beautiful LI~LY Restaurant in Knutsford with her husband Aiden Byrne, Sarah gives guests an exceptional dining experience. With a career spanning hotels, restaurants, and now LI~LY, she believes hospitality is all about making people feel seen, welcome, and part of something special. Beyond the restaurant, she devotes her time and energy to the SeaShell Trust, supporting children and families with additional needs.
Q Hotels – Claire Cregan & Rosie Frisby
At Q Hotels, HR Director Claire Cregan, supported closely by Rosie Frisby and the wider team, plays a pivotal role in shaping a people-first culture across the organisation. They are strong advocates for the belief that people are the foundation of long-term success, ensuring colleagues feel valued, supported and empowered at every stage of their journey.
Central to their approach is treating employees as internal customers, creating an environment where individuals are respected, listened to and invested in. By fostering this supportive and rewarding culture, they bring out the very best in their people — driving engagement, strengthening performance and underpinning the business’s growth, reputation and overall success.
Savvy Collective – Ele Minton
Ele brings her exceptional organisational skills and calm, steady support to her role as PA to the MD at Savvy Collective. She’s the person who keeps everything clicking effortlessly behind the scenes, making sure the team has what they need to thrive. Ele has a real talent for making everyone else shine, and her quiet efficiency plays a huge part in keeping the business running smoothly.
Tenet
Carol Bold – Leads on employee relations, people strategy and HR. Carol is central to fostering a supportive and professional working environment, ensuring colleagues feel valued, heard and empowered to succeed.
Janine Rudenko – Oversees the daily operations of the business, ensuring everything runs seamlessly. With a strong focus on people and culture, Janine champions the employee brand and long-term engagement. A dedicated, long-serving member of the team, she brings continuity, stability and deep organisational knowledge.
Kate McDermott – Responsible for client partnerships and relationships, Kate keeps a sharp commercial focus while ensuring contracts are delivered accurately and on time. With a constant eye on the bigger picture, she balances strategic thinking with client accountability. She is also actively involved in STEM outreach, supporting local schools and inspiring the next generation.
Through their work, Tenet also places strong emphasis on supporting charitable initiatives, including Maggie’s Manchester and Awyr Las: The North Wales NHS Charity, reflecting a shared commitment to community impact and compassionate care.
Many of these incredible women do all of the above while also juggling being mums, wives, partners, daughters, and more — and yet they still show up every day with boundless energy, inspiration, and dedication. Their ability to balance it all while leading, mentoring, and innovating is a true testament to the remarkable impact women have across our industry and communities.
