RISING STARS
There’s a role for everyone in travel and tourism – and there are many ways to launch your career with the headline sponsor of Take Off in Travel, Hays Travel
The UK’s largest independent travel agency, Hays Travel, has been operating for more than 40 years – and is still growing. It’s a company with strong values that is committed to providing excellent customer care and supporting the communities in which it operates. It offers opportunities for travel agents and foreign exchange as well as apprenticeships. We spoke to two members of the team who are building a career in this dynamic sector.
What do you do? I support customers and help them after they have made a booking – I love going above and beyond for customers and providing an excellent level of service. This can include anything from arranging check-ins to responding to customer queries and feedback on review sites and social media channels. I also enjoy building relationships with customers and suppliers.
How did you get into this role? After school, I studied travel and tourism at college, then applied to join Hays Travel as an apprentice. I had worked in customer service roles before so I knew this was the area I wanted to focus on during my apprenticeship. I’ve been fortunate to work with and learn from some very skilled people, and they have supported me in everything I have achieved so far – which includes being
JESSICA OLIVER customer services after-care clerk
shortlisted for Apprentice of the Year in the National Apprenticeship Awards 2023.
Did you always want to work in the travel industry? Yes. It’s such a large industry and I am excited by all the roles and possibilities.
What is your dream destination? I would love to go island-hopping in Greece or visit Iceland to experience the Blue Lagoon and the northern lights!
Did anyone try to put you off working in travel? Some people did say to me that travel is not a career, but thankfully I didn’t listen to them!
What advice would you give to someone thinking of a career in travel? Take every opportunity, don’t try to run before you can walk, say ‘yes’ more and work hard. You get out what you put in, so get involved and be enthusiastic about opportunities! Whatever your skill set, there is a job for you in travel.
What would you like to do in the future? I certainly want to stay in travel! I would like to share what I have learned by mentoring other apprentices – it would be good to give something back and to see someone else grow in their own career.
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