Abigail Tan: Trailblazing CEO Redefining Hospitality
Born into a prominent hospitality family, [Abigail] Tan’s path was shaped early. Growing up in Penang, Malaysia, she was immersed in the world of hotels and real estate, thanks to her grandfather and his brother, who ran one of Malaysia’s most successful real estate dynasties. Unlike many heirs who inherit a legacy, she chose to earn her place, starting as an apprentice during school breaks before formally joining St Giles Hotels in 2009 as Director of Corporate Affairs and Strategic Investments.
Her strategic insight was instrumental in acquiring two New York properties, solidifying her reputation as a shrewd negotiator. By 2018, she had ascended to the CEO role, overseeing properties in London and New York and spearheading St Giles Hotels’ expansion, including the highly anticipated 2025 launch of St Giles Makati in Manila.
Beyond the boardroom, Tan’s commitment to social impact is unwavering. Recognizing that a hotel should be more than just a business, she founded Hotels with a Heart, a charity initiative embedded in the brand’s DNA. More than just a CSR program, it’s a movement to make a tangible difference in the communities surrounding St Giles properties.
Hotels with a Heart is dedicated to supporting underprivileged children and education initiatives. The goal? To raise and invest £1 million into local projects, benefiting charities such as Coram Life Education—a foundation that educates children on health, relationships, and well-being—and Hospitality Action, which provides crucial support to hospitality industry professionals facing hardship.
But for Tan, philanthropy is not just about writing checks. She leads by example, personally taking part in fundraising efforts, whether organizing charity runs or abseiling down the hotels she manages. Her hands-on approach inspires her team to participate actively, making giving back an integral part of the company culture.
[Abigail] Tan is not just managing a hotel empire—she is revolutionizing the very definition of hospitality.
Her vision extends beyond luxury; she creates a movement where passion, purpose, and people come first. As St Giles Hotels continues to grow under her leadership, one thing is sure—Abigail Tan is not just shaping a brand but reshaping the future of hospitality itself
E-Global Travel Media
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This article was published on 1st February, 2025
