In a world where tradition often defines hospitality, Abigail Tan, CEO of St Giles Hotels Group for the U.K., Europe, and North America, is breaking boundaries. A visionary leader, an adventurer at heart, and a philanthropist with an unwavering commitment to social good, Tan is reshaping the industry with her bold leadership and innovative approach. Her dynamic presence is felt far beyond the boardroom, from abseiling down her hotels for charity to flying helicopters in her spare time.
A Legacy Rooted in Hospitality
Born into a prominent hospitality family, 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.
Leadership with Grit and Passion
Tan’s leadership style is anything but conventional. Whether boxing at 6 AM, playing the electric guitar, or taking on the gruelling Tough Mudder challenge, her energy and adventurous spirit are the backbone of St Giles’ corporate culture. She believes that hospitality is not just a business—it’s a way of life. “Passion should be at the core of everything we do,” she asserts, emphasizing that enthusiasm is as essential in board meetings as in guest service.
She fosters a workplace where innovation thrives, encouraging her team to think beyond conventional hospitality norms. Her forward-thinking vision positions St Giles Hotels as a brand that doesn’t just provide luxury accommodations but creates memorable experiences.
Hotels with a Heart: Redefining Corporate Social Responsibility
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.
A Vision for the Future: Education and Empowerment
As part of her mission to cultivate the next generation of hospitality leaders, Tan is launching the St Giles Hospitality Academy in partnership with Saira Hospitality. This groundbreaking initiative aims to provide underprivileged individuals with the skills and training needed to build successful careers in the hospitality industry.
Tan firmly believes that hospitality should be accessible to all, not just those with privileged backgrounds. She hopes to bridge the gap between opportunity and talent by offering education and hands-on training, fostering a new wave of passionate and skilled professionals.
Balancing Business, Family, and Adventure
Despite her demanding role, Tan embraces a whole and dynamic personal life. A dedicated mother and an avid thrill-seeker, she balances corporate leadership with adventure. Whether she’s soaring in a helicopter, riding a motorcycle, or exploring new destinations, she exemplifies the spirit she brings to her brand—bold, passionate, and unstoppable.
Her journey is a testament to business acumen and the belief that success should be multifaceted. A thriving career, personal fulfilment, and social impact can coexist, proving that a true leader is not defined by a title but by their actions and the legacy they build.
The Future of Hospitality Under Abigail Tan
Under her leadership, St Giles Hotels is poised for an era of innovation, expansion, and deepened social responsibility. With the upcoming launch of St Giles Makati and a continued focus on community-driven initiatives, 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.
Written by: Sandra Jones
