Gillian Tans
Gillian Tans
Gillian Tans is a leading business executive and entrepreneur, known for her role as the former CEO of Booking.com, a position she held from 2016 to 2019. Born in the Netherlands, Tans has had a significant impact on the online travel industry, helping Booking.com expand its global presence and become one of the largest and most influential travel platforms in the world. Under her leadership, the company saw tremendous growth, particularly in terms of customer acquisition, market expansion, and the development of innovative technology to improve the customer experience.
Prior to her role as CEO, Gillian Tans held various leadership positions within Booking.com, starting as a Director of Sales before progressing through the ranks to become the company's Chief Operating Officer. Tans has been a strong advocate for women in leadership, frequently speaking about the importance of gender equality in the workplace and the need for more diverse leadership across the tech and travel sectors. Her work has earned her recognition as one of the most powerful women in business.
One of Gillian Tans' notable quotes is: “Leadership is not about being in charge. It’s about taking care of those in your charge.” This statement reflects her philosophy on leadership, which focuses on team empowerment, collaboration, and supporting others to reach their full potential. Tans continues to be an influential voice in the business world, particularly in the areas of technology, travel, and corporate leadership.