In this insightful new episode, host Antoine Abou-Samra welcomes Special Guest Emma Banks, Vice President of Food & Beverage Strategy and Development at Hilton EMEA.
In their conversation, Emma shares her insights and experiences in the world of hospitality. From sustainable sourcing to wine culture, Emma discusses the importance of local produce, reducing carbon emissions, and creating memorable guest experiences. Discover the fascinating stories behind Hilton's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and food waste, supporting local communities and providing exceptional dining options. With topics ranging from farm-to-table initiatives to making wine more accessible and enjoyable, Emma's passion for authenticity and connection shines through. This podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of food, sustainability, culture, and hospitality. Tune in and be inspired by Emma's journey to transform the industry and create meaningful experiences for guests worldwide.
SPECIAL GUEST BIO
Based at Hilton’s MEA Regional Office in Dubai, Emma Banks is responsible for F&B strategy and development across EMEA, supporting Hilton’s trading and future pipeline of hotels.
Over the course of Emma’s career, she has seamlessly transitioned from independents to large global hospitality companies. She joined Hilton in 2019 with a mission to make the company the clear leader in food and drink. In but a short time she has made a big impact, bringing a wealth of exceptional F&B talent into the business while being actively involved in Hilton’s various diversity initiatives.
Emma recognizes the critical responsibility that F&B plays in protecting the planet and has been involved in several market-leading initiatives to reduce single-use plastics, track food waste and source ingredients locally, which was recognised at the launch of Gault & Millau in the UAE, when Emma was shortlisted as a finalist in the category of ‘Sustainability Champion Of The Year’, and most recently when she was declared the Gulfood Sustainability Professional of The Year 2023.
Emma is also a role model to women in the industry, ranking #1 in Caterer Middle East’s “2020 Women in F&B” Power List. At the end of 2020 Emma was elected a Member of the Board of Governors and Member of the Board of the Academic Committee of Dubai College of Tourism (DCT) and in 2022, she was selected to be one of HSBC’s ’75 Faces of the UAE’. Most recently Emma was acknowledged with a Middle East Women Leader Award at the World Women Leadership Congress Awards Middle East, for her contribution to the promotion of empowerment and social change and she was included in the 2023 Top Women in Travel and Hospitality report by Women Leading Travel & Hospitality.
Emma holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Leeds University and lives in Dubai with her husband Jon, daughter Lily (when home from university) and a menagerie of rescue cats and dogs!
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