About Anita

Anita Mendiratta is a globally recognised strategic advisor, author, diplomat, and on-air personality in Tourism, Aviation, Leadership, and Development. With a professional background anchored at IBM, Unilever, and The Coca-Cola Company, Anita currently leads ANITA MENDIRATTA & ASSOCIATES, a London-based global management consultancy renowned for its excellence in strategy design, creative ideation, stakeholder relationship development, and delivery of measurable, impactful results. Her deep understanding of the intricate economic, social, political, and environmental dynamics that shape nations and businesses is supported by over three decades of experience across more than 100 countries.

As the Special Advisor to the Secretary General of UN Tourism (formerly UNWTO), she plays a crucial role in shaping tourism policies that significantly influence global economic diversification through sustainable tourism development. Uniquely, Anita has established herself as a trusted source of insight and inspiration in tourism development and aviation, focusing acutely on the transformation of national economies, societies, identities, and future growth trajectories.

Her extensive work and deep commitment have solidified her reputation as a senior advisor to the leadership of governments and top-tier organisations. Her expertise was particularly vital during the COVID-19 pandemic, where her guidance helped global leaders navigate the unprecedented crisis while laying the foundation for sustainable recovery.

Her latest book, The Call to Leadership: Unlocking the Leader Within in Times of Crisis has garnered immediate acclaim from government, business, and academic circles worldwide, alongside nominations for prestigious international book awards, including The Financial Times Book of the Year 2024 and Best Business Book Award 2024.

Professional honours include:

• Executive in Residence at the University of Surrey, UK,
• Visiting Professor at Cranfield University, UK,
• Former Founding Advisory Board Member to the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU),
• Former Special Advisor to the CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA),
• Moderator and Facilitator of numerous government and UN investment and tourism leadership events across the,
• Strategic Resource to the World Bank, World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), International Air Transport Association (IATA), and Air Transport Action Group (ATAG).

Furthermore, Anita channels her belief in global activity making a local impact through her Foundation, The Anita Mendiratta Foundation –  that works in tourism-dependent countries to rebuild communities after crises, focusing on restoring early childhood education.

Firmly embedded within the global leadership community, Anita’s influence has earned her recognition as one of the ‘Most Influential Women in Tourism’ and among the ‘Top 25 Inspirational Executives in Travel/Hospitality,’ underscoring her significant contributions to global advancement.