Shine People and Places has announced the launch of two new panellist debates for the autumn, focusing on women’s roles in the travel and tourism industry.

The first debate, entitled What women REALLY want from jobs in travel & tourism ... and why should employers take notice? will take place at World Travel Market at London’s Excel on Tuesday 7 November between 11am and 1pm.

The debate will focus on new developments in the travel and tourism sector and the opportunities women – who represent more than 60 per cent of the travel and tourism workforce – will need to develop and broaden their skills and their experience.

Invited panellists include: Kristina Wallen, managing director of Harp Wallen Executive Recruitment; Mandy Nickerson, managing director of Bales Worldwide; Brandon Crimes, senior lecturer at the University of Hertfordshire; Sue Kavanagh, human resources director Northern Europe for Carlson Wagonlit; and Peter Healey, CEO of Vertical Group.

The second panellist debate, entitled Women in travel & tourism – public vs private: what have we got to learn from each other?, will take place at the Visit London offices from 6-8.30pm on Monday 4 December 2006.

This seminar will examine the public and private sectors’ varying support and encouragement of women's personal and professional development.

Invited panellists include Martine Ainsworth-Wells, marketing director of Visit London; Carolyn Smith, head of tourism for the London Development Agency; and Kathryn Pretzel-Shiels director and head of Hotel & Restaurant Industries of American Express.

Both events are free, but places will be allocated on a first come first served basis. To reserve your place call +44 (0)208 3718540, or send an email to [email protected]