Jeddah hotel names first female GM

Monera Ali Abdullah Al Nowiser is named general manager of the Radisson Blu Hotel, Jeddah.
She joined the Radisson Blu Hotel, Jeddah in 2011 as a meetings and events coordinator and proved a valuable team player, passionate about the hospitality industry.
She was soon promoted to assistant meetings and events manager, continuing to develop her leadership skills and knowledge of the industry.
“I grew up as a self-confident woman believing in my own capabilities and in the strength of women in general. Whenever I imagined my future, I could not see myself living the usual life of most of the Saudi ladies,” said Monera.
“I was different. I wanted to lead and be in charge of something big that would make me proud.”
She believes that, while the barriers for women lie in the country’s traditions and culture, the country is seeing significant changes.
“Monera’s appointment to a managerial position is a combination of the drive from her and the support from cluster general manager Shakeel Al Hamid, and we are incredibly proud of this achievement,” said Mark Willis area vice president, Middle East and Turkey.
“She is a positive role model for our Women in Leadership programme which has been created to build on our heritage of growing from within and overcoming the barriers that may be blocking women from developing into senior leadership positions.”
Monera said: “The biggest challenge here in Saudi Arabia is the balance between work and home life. It is predominantly the women’s role to stay at home. Whenever a woman succeeds in handling this work-family balance, we need to be proud of ourselves and showcase it.”