Breakfast forum features networking, panel discussions and honors for hospitality standouts
MONTEREY, Calif., April 23, 2025 – Women make up about half of all hospitality industry employees, says the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, yet they’re underrepresented in leadership positions.
The 10th annual Women in Leadership event, hosted by the Monterey County Hospitality Association (MCHA), aims to bridge that gap. The forum includes panel discussions, networking and awards recognizing talented women in Monterey County’s hospitality industry, which employs nearly 27,000 people.
“Women are central to this industry’s success, and this annual event fosters vital conversations and connections among colleagues," says MCHA Executive Director Kristin Horton. "The Women in Hospitality breakfast has doubled in guest size since just 2022. It's an honor to empower the next generation of women leaders in hospitality."
Expert voices
The 2025 Women in Hospitality event takes place on Friday, April 25, 2025, at the Inn at Spanish Bay. Doors open at 8 a.m. for registration, breakfast and mimosas. Speakers and a ceremony celebrating rising stars and established leaders follow at 9 a.m.
This year's keynote speaker is Cassandra Costello, executive vice president and chief strategy officer for the San Francisco Travel Association. Costello oversees government and external affairs, public policy, and three nonprofit boards for SF Travel. She’s also involved in strategic planning, organizational operations, visitor services and other management functions. Costello will share insights gained during a career that spans more than two decades.
Pebble Beach Company’s Kathleen Lee, in her eighth year as Women in Leadership emcee, will moderate a fireside chat featuring three local hospitality leaders: Barbara Causley, general manager of the California Rodeo Salinas, Espi Rodriguez, Portola Hotel & Spa director of housekeeping, and Andrea Ferrara, enterprise sales director for Atrium Hospitality.
The panelists bring smart perspective from all facets of the industry.
“Our panel participants have worked in small and large businesses. They understand how solid leadership makes teams more successful. Each has a unique career journey, and together, they represent the rich opportunities available throughout hospitality,” says Phyllis Grillo, CSUMB director of university affairs and event chair. “Leaders evolve at every level and in every type of role. MCHA’s Women in Leadership planning committee appreciates this chance to spotlight high achievers in food and beverage, guest services, housekeeping, marketing, management and beyond."
Industry trends
This year’s panelists will explore the different paths towards leadership, and how women can be mentors and advocates in the workplace. They’ll also discuss navigating challenges and opportunities such as communication differences, boundaries or leadership styles.
According to an American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) Foundation report, more women are moving into executive roles as they build robust hospitality careers. The hotel field alone offers more than 200 different career paths, and area tour companies, restaurants, wineries and attractions also provide valuable flexibility and job-advancement opportunities.
That’s true for both trailblazers and those who work behind the scenes.
The Monterey County event continues to grow thanks to support from area businesses and educational professionals like Phyllis Grillo and Molly Jansen, hospitality department chair at MPC.
“Our event partners understand the impact of strong, smart women in leadership roles,” Horton says. “Whether they’re working a part-time job or pursuing a long-term professional path in hospitality, women positively influence our workplaces and our wider community.”
Event essentials
What: 10th annual Women in Leadership
When: Friday, April 25, 2025
8 a.m.: Registration, breakfast and mimosas
9 a.m.: Program and recognition
Where: Inn at Spanish Bay, 2700 17 Mile Dr, Pebble Beach, CA 93953
Tickets: mcha.net
Media contact: Kristin Horton, MCHA Executive Director, kristin@mcha.net
Note to editors: Please contact MCHA for panelist interviews, photos and event access.
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About MCHA
The Monterey County Hospitality Association (MCHA) provides a unified voice for nearly 27,000 local hospitality professionals. Since 1975, the nonprofit trade organization has protected the interests of employees through advocacy and strong partnerships with local government, elected officials and community groups. MCHA also leads employee recognition events and expands career opportunities through educational programs serving all facets of the hospitality industry. MCHA proudly supports the hospitality and tourism businesses that generate more than $307 million in state and local tax revenues a year, directly benefiting all Monterey County residents. Learn more at www.mcha.net.
