Who Is Anita Mendiratta
Anita Mendiratta is one of the most prominent global advisors and thought leaders working with senior decision-makers in times of profound challenge and opportunity. As Founder and President of ANITA MENDIRATTA & ASSOCIATES, she has spent over 30 years advising governments, global institutions and industry leaders across more than 100 countries. Her work spans tourism, aviation, leadership development and sustainable growth, always grounded in the human dimension of leadership.
Recognised as one of the “Most Influential Women in Tourism”, “Top 25 Inspirational Executives in Travel and Hospitality”, “Top 25 Executives to Watch in 2025” and among the “Top 10 Business Leaders Driving Global Change in 2025”, Anita’s influence is defined not by titles alone, but by trust. Leaders seek her counsel when the stakes are high and the path forward requires wisdom, empathy and resolve.
Trusted Advisor to Global Institutions and Governments
Anita’s trusted presence is reflected in the advisory roles she holds at the highest international levels. She serves as Special Advisor to the Secretary General of UN Tourism (formerly UNWTO) and is a strategic resource to the World Bank, the World Travel & Tourism Council, the International Air Transport Association, the Air Transport Action Group and ICCA.
Her leadership insight has also shaped national and regional transformation initiatives. She is a Founding Advisory Board Member of the Royal Commission for AlUla in Saudi Arabia and previously served as Special Advisor to the CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority. In academia, Anita contributes as Executive in Residence at the University of Surrey and Visiting Professor at Cranfield University, sharing real-world leadership insight with future decision-makers.
Author and Voice of Leadership in Action
As a multi-published author, Anita brings leaders closer to the realities of decision-making under pressure. Her globally acclaimed, award-winning book The Call to Leadership explores what it truly takes to lead with courage, clarity and compassion in times of disruption. The book offers a rare window into the inner world of high-level leaders, addressing the emotional, psychological and ethical dimensions of leadership that are often left unspoken.
This focus on the inner strength of leaders has made Anita a sought-after voice in global media. She is a frequent and trusted contributor on BBC, Bloomberg, CNBC, Euronews, Sky News, TRT, ITV, France24 and other international outlets, offering insight on leadership in crisis, global recovery and the wellbeing challenges leaders face today.
On Stage, On Air and In the Room
When you book Anita Mendiratta for your event, you engage more than a keynote speaker. You engage a seasoned moderator, facilitator and strategic guide. Anita is trusted to moderate and facilitate high-level government, UN, industry, business and academic summits around the world, where nuance, diplomacy and depth matter.
On stage, her presence is calm yet powerful. She connects strategy with humanity, global context with personal responsibility. Whether delivering a keynote, moderating a panel or guiding an executive dialogue, her aim is consistent: to lift the room, elevate confidence and create meaningful connection.
Leadership, Wellbeing and Purpose
At the heart of Anita’s work is a deep commitment to leadership wellbeing and responsible impact. She understands that sustainable results depend on leaders who are grounded, resilient and purpose-driven. Through The Anita Mendiratta Foundation, she supports access to education for children in tourism-dependent countries, ensuring that global leadership decisions deliver meaningful local impact.
For audiences navigating uncertainty, transformation or renewal, Anita Mendiratta offers something rare: perspective shaped by experience, insight delivered with empathy, and leadership guidance that stays with leaders long after the applause ends.
Book Anita Mendiratta for your event to inspire confidence, clarity and courageous leadership when it matters most.