How does it feel to win this award?

I feel very honoured and humbled to have won such a prestigious award that is recognised within the industry. It was also a lovely surprise as I did not expect it.

How did you get into business travel?

I previously worked in hospitality and got fed up with the long hours and shifts. I saw some H&R consultant vacancies locally with Expotel at the time, applied and it has gone from there. I have been in business travel now for over 20 years, progressing from consultant to middle management level.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

The people I work with – it is a real team effort. My role involves dealing with consultants and managers across all departments of the business - so no two days are the same. The collaboration and teamwork to achieve our joint objectives is a big motivator for me, as well as seeing consultants develop and gain promotions within the business, and what part I play in that.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to pursue a career in business travel?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions and put your name out there when roles come up where you can progress in the business. There is a career path in business travel, and you can achieve what you want if you put in the hard work.

What are you seeing as the biggest challenge in business travel over the next 12 months?

Recruitment. Unfortunately during the pandemic, a vast number of people were made redundant across our industry through no fault of their own. Some have returned to the business, but others have found new career paths, and it can be challenging when looking for experience and knowledge within more complex roles such as travel consultants.

If you could change one single thing in business travel, what would it be?

I believe that compared to other industries, people are underpaid for the work that they put in. So, improved salaries especially at entry level to a career in business travel.

What’s the favourite place you’ve travelled to and why?

Florida on my honeymoon – it was a great experience, and we were able to make memories with our two oldest children. We even went to Discovery Cove to swim with dolphins on my oldest boy’s birthday… what a day!  Now I have to take the other two children we have had since we got married (when I save the money again!).

What would be your Desert Island item?

A photo frame of my family.