Questex’s Hotel Management unveils 2026 Influential Women in Hospitality list recognizing industry leaders

Questex’s Hotel Management has released its 2026 Influential Women in Hospitality list, recognizing senior executives and professionals across the global hotel industry for their contributions to operations, development and leadership, the company said on April 1.

The annual list highlights women working across hotel companies, ownership groups, technology providers and consulting firms. Questex said the initiative aims to acknowledge leadership roles held by women and their impact on business performance and organizational growth.

Annual recognition program announced

Questex confirmed that the 2026 list includes individuals from multiple regions, representing a range of functions such as operations, development, finance, marketing and technology. The company said candidates were selected based on professional achievements, leadership roles and contributions to the hospitality sector.

The announcement was made through Hotel Management, a publication under Questex, which organizes the recognition program each year. Officials stated that the list reflects a cross-section of leadership within the global hotel industry.

The company did not disclose the total number of honorees but confirmed that the list includes executives from both established hotel brands and emerging companies.

Selection criteria and process

Questex said the selection process involved evaluating nominees based on their career progression, influence within their organizations and measurable impact on the industry. Submissions were reviewed by editorial teams responsible for identifying qualifying candidates.

Officials stated that nominees were assessed on leadership performance, innovation and their role in shaping business strategies. The list includes professionals at different stages of their careers, from senior leadership to rising executives.

The company added that the recognition is not ranked and does not assign positions to the individuals included.

Industry representation

The 2026 list features professionals from hotel operators, asset management firms, hospitality service providers and technology companies supporting the sector. Questex said this reflects the broad structure of the modern hospitality industry.

Executives included in the list are involved in managing hotel portfolios, overseeing development pipelines and implementing operational strategies across multiple markets. The recognition spans both domestic and international roles.

Questex noted that the program continues to expand in scope as participation increases across regions.

Role of leadership initiatives

The company said the initiative is intended to highlight leadership diversity and professional achievements within the hospitality sector. Industry participants have indicated that such recognitions contribute to visibility for leadership roles across different functions.

Questex stated that the list is part of its broader portfolio of industry recognition programs, which aim to document developments and personnel contributions within hospitality.

No financial or award-based incentives are associated with inclusion in the list.

Current status

The 2026 Influential Women in Hospitality list has been published and is now available through Questex’s Hotel Management platform, with the company continuing its annual recognition program for industry professionals.