‘You can’t be what you can’t see’:

The case for greater representation on UK hospitality professional boards.

Abstract

Despite being one of the UK’s largest and most diverse sectors, hospitality struggles with a lack of diversity on the boards of professional membership associations (PMAs), which have remained overwhelmingly homogenous. Visible diversity on boards, displayed on their websites, can be a signal that barriers to inclusion can be overcome, whilst lack of representation can discourage professionals to want to join such an association and question their ability to respond to the needs of its members, the very essence of PMAs. The composition of PMA boards is an under researched area, and deserves greater insights, particularly as the leadership skills gained through board membership can assist progression within the workplace and the profession (Fyall and Gazley, 2015). This article calls for greater representation on UK hospitality professional boards to foster an inclusive culture, ensure their continued relevance, and inspire the next generation of leaders.