Worldwide Hospitality Awards

IHG RISE is a mentoring initiative that empowers women in the hospitality industry to realise their ambition to become general managers.

At IHG Hotels & Resorts, we are proud of our enviable reputation for developing talent around the world. Our incredible colleagues around the world are testament to that. But our work is never done.
We know that women are still vastly under-represented at the highest levels of hotel management. It's time to break down these barriers and promote inclusion at the top. We want to create a future where women aspiring to the position of general manager rise up and succeed in achieving their ambitions.
It's time to change our sector from the inside.
The RISE programme is open to women managers who are successful in their role, who have demonstrated a willingness to develop and who have clearly expressed an interest in the position of General Manager.
Spearheaded by IHG's Global Diversity and Inclusion Board, the programme aims from September 2019 to increase the percentage of female General Managers in IHG Hotels & Resorts' hotels.
This is an organisational priority and is part of IHG's 'Journey to Tomorrow' commitments (this plan provides IHG Hotels & Resorts with a powerful framework for 2030 and promotes a diverse culture where everyone can thrive).
As part of the programme, participants have access to a dedicated mentor and sponsor,
Designed to build confidence, expand networks and promote career progression, the programme lasts 12 months. There are six training modules, three career development workshops and the opportunity to run a LeanIn circle in their hotel.
In September 2021, the 2nd RISE class in Europe was launched with 18 female managers.