In Brief: The 2026 Women in Trade Associations Powerlist has recognized three executives from ABTA, highlighting the growing female leadership within the hospitality industry’s trade associations.
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Three ABTA Executives Included in 2026 Women in Trade Associations Powerlist – Image Credit ABTA
Claire Biddle, Shelly Beresford, and Laura Stephen of ABTA have been named to the 2026 Women in Trade Associations Powerlist.
Claire Biddle, Commercial Director at ABTA, and Shelly Beresford and Laura Stephen, who share the role of Head of Brand and Marketing, have been included in the 2026 Women in Trade Associations Powerlist. The Powerlist was launched on March 6, ahead of International Women’s Day on March 8, and recognises women in trade associations.
As Commercial Director, Biddle leads ABTA’s Commercial Department, which includes the ABTA Partner scheme and the ABTA events programme. The department generates income from various sources and supports members through access to suppliers, resources, and events that address industry challenges such as legal compliance, sustainability, customer experience, and crisis management. Biddle also oversees ABTA’s travel insurance product.
Beresford and Stephen, in their shared position as Head of Brand and Marketing, manage the ABTA brand and lead campaigns encouraging consumers to travel with confidence. Their responsibilities include showcasing ABTA benefits to members and providing toolkits and services to support member businesses. They have also presented at ABTA’s travel marketing events.
