by MELISSA DOWLING

more women take on leadership roles in all tiers of the beverage alcohol business . It wasn ’ t easy for many to initially break into the old boys network , but the industry has been more welcoming to female owners and executives .

Still , it can still be challenging for women to navigate corporate cultures and build relationships in the industry , especially when they ' re just starting out . We reached out to some of the influential women in beverage alcohol to learn more about their backgrounds , inspirations and role models , and what it means to be a leader today . Here ’ s what they had to say .

DIRECTOR OF BEVERAGE PROGRAMS AND PARTNERSHIPS , LUXURY & LIFESTYLE AMERICAS , AT IHG HOTELS & RESORTS

Katherine " Kat " Wojcik

HOW DID YOU GET INTO THE BEVERAGE ALCOHOL BUSINESS ?

After graduating from University of Nevada , Las Vegas , with a degree in hotel administration , I planned to work in front office , or other hotel leadership roles . After 9 / 11 , many companies paused internships and management training programs . Luckily , I worked in restaurants while attending university , and instead of moving to front office , I stayed in restaurants and bars .

I ’ ve always wanted to travel the world , and have a love of history and the arts . I started my career as a travel agent , and throughout my many jobs and cities I ’ ve lived in , I have always gravitated back to wine and beverage , as it combines all the things I love into one glass !

Beverage has been a common thread in my career since I began with the Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin about 20 years ago . I am thankful for that property requiring all leaders to become certified sommeliers .

After receiving certification , I have always gravitated to positions that involve beverage or wine , with roles in hotels and in sports and entertainment that are heavy in beverage programming . Aside from the sommelier or sales manager , the many roles in the beverage industry

Beverage Industry Inclusion 2024 9