From Execution to Influence: Women Shaping the Future of Business Travel

In this feature series, GBTA’s Conselho Administrativo share their perspectives on topics that matter most to members, the industry and the way forward for business travel. Today’s guest author is Joyce Macieri, Global Travel Manager at Minerva Foods.

For many years, women have played a critical role in the execution of business travel. We managed operations, solved crises, kept travelers moving and ensured continuity in complex and unpredictable environments. Yet much of this work happened behind the scenes, far from strategic discussions and decision-making tables.

Today, the role of women in business travel has evolved significantly, and programs like the GBTA Foundation’s WINiT  (“Women in Travel”) has helped them thrive in their travel industry careers. As the industry faces growing complexity — from geopolitical instability and duty of care, to sustainability and traveler well-being — leadership is becoming less about managing processes and more about influencing outcomes. Women are increasingly stepping into roles where they help define policies, assess risk, balance global and regional priorities and shape long-term strategies.

This shift is not accidental. Years of operational responsibility have equipped many women with a holistic view of the travel ecosystem. Understanding the traveler experience, supplier dynamics, financial controls and cultural nuances enables more informed and human-centered decisions.

Across the industry, we now see more women contributing at board, advisory and governance levels — bringing not only operational excellence, but strategic judgment and accountability. Representation at this level changes how decisions are made: it encourages collaboration, long-term thinking and a broader view of risk and opportunity in a global industry built on trust and resilience.

From my own journey, the most meaningful transition has been moving from managing tasks to influencing direction. Leadership in this context is not about control, but about consistency, listening and the responsibility to represent more than one organization or region. It is about contributing to an industry-wide dialogue that drives better outcomes for companies and travelers alike.

As we mark International Women’s Day esse Sunday, March 8, it is important to recognize how far women in business travel have come — and the role they continue to play in elevating the industry. When diverse perspectives are present at the decision-making table, business travel becomes more resilient, more human, and better prepared for what lies ahead.