Pat Barber, OM at Agiito – winner of the ITM Individual Programme Achievement Award

How does it feel to win an ITM Achievement Award?

I’m Incredibly proud and, at the same time, overwhelmed. Although this was classed as an individual award, in reality it would not have been possible to do everything I did without the help and support from my colleagues across the business.

How did you get into business travel?

“Ever since I was young I wanted to travel, initially with the idea of becoming an air hostess (as they were called in those days!), but competition was extremely high and it never came to fruition. I eventually landed a job with British Airways doing a variety of roles, starting as a Support Consultant for Business Travel Consultants who contacted BA. I ended up at Manchester Airport and finished when BA closed their base.

I then did a stint working for the police in a busy control room, but the pull of travel was always in my blood and I spotted a role being advertised for an out of hours Bustiness Travel Consultant. With my years spent on a busy airport ticket desk and the pressure of a police control room, it was an easy transition for me...and so my journey began.

What’s the best thing about your present job?

The best thing without a doubt is the people I work with every day; they keep me going even through the toughest of times.

What advice would you give to someone looking to get into the business travel industry?

Don’t be scared to try, there are so many opportunities to develop and grow.

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

Wow that’s a tricky one as I have been incredibly fortunate to travel to some amazing places, but I guess The Maldives. It really is the picture postcard place you believe it to be. Stepping out of our beach villa straight into the Indian Ocean to snorkel with sea life you have only ever seen on television or in a book, is something I will never forget.

What would be your Desert Island item?

I would have to say my husband. He is my best friend and the one that keeps me grounded and real. If not, then it would have to be sunscreen!