Abigail Tan: Carving a Unique Path in Hospitality Amidst a Family Legacy
In a landscape where less than 20% of active UK companies are led by women, Abigail Tan stands out as an inspiring figure in the hospitality industry. As the CEO of the St Giles Hotels Group, she embodies the challenges and triumphs faced by women in business. Her journey is not merely a continuation of her family’s successful legacy in real estate and hospitality, but a bold venture into creating her own impact in an industry still grappling with gender and cultural representation.
A Family Legacy
Tan comes from a distinguished lineage—her grandfather was a key player in Malaysia’s real estate sector, and her father currently leads IGB Corporation, the parent company of St Giles. However, rather than relying on her family’s established name, Abigail has taken it upon herself to forge a distinct path. "I loved the smell of a hotel. Everything about it interested me," she reminisced about her early experiences in hotels during childhood trips in Malaysia. Little did she know, this fascination with hospitality would shape her career trajectory.
During her formative years, Abigail spent summers working at her family’s hotels alongside her academic pursuits in Exeter. Her experiences in hospitality evolved into a full-time commitment that led her to New York for what she describes as her "baptism by fire" at the St Giles Hotels Group.
Navigating Challenges in New York
At just 24 years old, Tan found herself leading significant projects, including the rebranding of a former W hotel in New York. The process was daunting and fraught with challenges, particularly in dealing with a labor dispute that saw unionization efforts clash with her aspirations for the business. "They would sound horns and shout in the streets. It was quite intimidating,” she recalls, reflecting on the conflicts she faced as a young female leader in a male-dominated industry.
Despite these challenges, her tenure has led to substantial growth for St Giles, which now operates eight hotels across five countries, with plans for expansion already underway.
Leadership Philosophy
Becoming the chief executive in 2018 marked a pivotal shift in her career. Tan describes leadership as akin to conducting an orchestra, requiring awareness of how her decisions affect her team. "I’m not the perfect leader. We all make mistakes. We are only human," she acknowledges. Despite being part of a minority of female Asian executives, she emphasizes the importance of representation. Under her guidance, women’s voices are amplified at St Giles, with 60% of the executive board and 80% of department heads being women.
Advocating for Diversity
Tan’s commitment to diversity and inclusion extends beyond her company. She advocates for a balanced representation of Asian leaders within the European hospitality sector, highlighting the unique perspectives and experiences they bring to the table. "Having a mix of experiences and cultures is always a good thing," she argues, emphasizing the need for more Asian representation to enrich the industry.
Commitment to Social Change
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Tan is dedicated to making a difference in her community. She initiated "Hotels with Heart," a charity program focused on helping homeless individuals re-enter the workforce. This initiative provides training and guaranteed job interviews to participants, highlighting Tan’s belief in second chances. “Everyone deserves a chance to grow and find a livelihood,” she states.
Advice for Aspiring Leaders
For women aspiring to lead in their fields, Tan has valuable insights. She stresses the importance of authenticity and staying true to one’s values. Additionally, she advises on the necessity of effectively navigating conflict and maintaining open lines of communication—a skill she attributes to her reading of "The Culture Map," a guide on understanding diverse communication styles across cultures.
"Apologize when necessary, and hold firm when you believe in your stance," Tan advises, emphasizing humility and kindness as crucial elements of effective leadership.
Through her story, Abigail Tan not only showcases her determination to navigate the complexities of the hospitality industry but also inspires others to embrace their unique paths in the face of legacy and expectation. As she continues to lead St Giles Hotels Group, her mission to uplift those around her reflects a progressive vision for the future of the hospitality sector and broader business landscape.