Sustainable Development Role of Women Executives: Example of Five Star Hotel Managements in İstanbul

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the role of executive women in the development of tourism sector. Here, the aim is to address the challenges faced by women executives working in five-star enterprises in İstanbul. In this research, semi-structured interview, which is one of the qualitative research techniques data collection, is used to identify the problems experienced by the women executives working in hotel businesses. A face-to-face interview technique was held with 10 women executives working in executive positions in 10 five-star hotels. The problems faced by 7 of them are also discussed. Data collected by semi-structured interview technique were analyzed with MAXQDA 2018 program. As stated in the UNDP 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, with the findings to eliminate all kinds of discrimination against women; improvement methods are included and analyzed. Empowering women and girls have a role in accelerating growth and economic growth and development in all areas. UNDP, with the support of other UN partners and the international community, has put gender equality, at the center of its work. Especially, at the end of the studies conducted since 2000, more girls can receive education than 20 years ago. In this study, it has been determined that women executives working in tourism businesses in the service sector are undergraduate and undergraduate graduates of universities, Tourism and Hotel Management, and the majority of their work experience is between 13-30 years. Also, what are the positive or negative situations they encounter in their business lives are explained. In this context, in order to increase the roles of women managers in sustainable development and to emphasize the equality of women and men rights, there is a need to raise awareness of the society with the support of local governments, educational institutions and the media.