Speakers

Based at Hilton’s regional office in Dubai, Emma Banks leads the strategic direction, brand vision, and operational excellence of Hilton’s Food & Beverage portfolio across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, supporting the trading and future pipeline of hotels.

As a key member of Hilton’s Brands and Central Operations leadership team, Emma steers the development of distinctive food and drink experiences that enhance guest satisfaction, deliver commercial results, support Hilton’s Travel with Purpose goals, and cultivate best-in-class retail talent.

Her remit covers strategy, operations, and innovation, guiding brand rollouts and operational best practice, managing performance through KPIs, financial targets and guest feedback and working with hotel operators to inspire world-class team member experiences. She also champions talent development, leads recruitment and succession planning, and builds strategic partnerships with suppliers and industry leaders.

Since joining Hilton in 2019, Emma has brought a wealth of exceptional F&B specialist talent into the business, strengthened responsible business initiatives and positioned Hilton as a leader in food and drink. Her sustainability leadership earned recognition at Gulfood, where she was named Sustainability Professional of the Year 2023, and at the Hotelier Middle East Awards 2023, where she was honoured as Sustainability Champion of the Year.

A respected role model, Emma was elected to the Board of Governors and Academic Committee of Dubai College of Tourism and received the Middle East Women Leader Award in 2023. She was also featured in the Top Women in Travel and Hospitality report and named winner of the Excellence in Hospitality category at FilmFare’s Most Influential Women Awards 2024.