Leading Ladies with Kath Mainland – Dundee & Angus Chamber of Commerce
Our Leading Ladies series, proudly sponsored by Robertson Construction Tayside, shines a spotlight on some of the nation’s most inspiring and influential female leaders. Through engaging conversation and personal insight, we explore their career journeys, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.
More than just a celebration of female success, this series is designed to inspire audiences across the business community – from emerging professionals to the region’s most senior leaders. Our Leading Ladies share experiences that resonate far beyond industry or role, offering honest reflections, practical advice and fresh perspectives on leadership, resilience and ambition.
This event will feature a keyote from Kath Mainland before she’s joined by Ewa Rankin (Malmaison) and Sonja Nowicki (Dundee Museum of Transport) for a dynamic panel Q&A session, giving attendees the opportunity to hear first-hand stories, ask questions and gain insights from women who continue to shape and influence the business landscape.
Join us for an inspiring and thought-provoking event as we celebrate leadership, share experiences and learn from our remarkable Leading Ladies.
About Kath Mainland:
Kath M Mainland CBE is an internationally respected arts leader with more than 20 years’ experience leading major cultural organisations in the UK and Australia. She joins Dundee Rep Theatre as Executive Director in 2025, following a decade in Australia where she held senior roles including Chief Executive of Adelaide Festival, Executive Director and co-CEO of RISING Melbourne, and Chief Executive of Melbourne International Arts Festival.
Originally from Orkney, Mainland began her career in Scotland and previously served as Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society and Administrative Director of the Edinburgh International Book Festival. Known for her collaborative and transformational leadership style, she was awarded a CBE for services to culture in Scotland in 2014.
Q&A Panellists:
Ewa Rankin is a Cluster Sales Manager at Malmaison Aberdeen, Dundee at Hotel du Vin in St Andrews. who is passionate about building meaningful relationships and creating opportunities for business growth. She enjoys connecting with people, understanding their needs, and developing partnerships that deliver long-term success. With strong planning and organisational skills, Ewa thrives in bringing people and ideas together to achieve positive results. She values collaboration, trust, and a customer-focused approach in everything she does. Outside of work, Ewa enjoys spending time outdoors and staying active through running, walking, and hiking. She values the balance that nature and exercise bring, helping her stay energised, focused, and ready for new challenges.
