Women in Travel: Inside Travel Group’s Amanda Highfield on where there’s still work to be done
In travel, the issues around gender equality are complex. Whilst there are plenty of women who work in travel, the demographic of the industry is not always reflected at the top where men still hold a disproportionate number of roles. In this interview with Travel Weekly, Inside Travel Group’s national sales manager Amanda Highfield speaks on where the travel industry still has further to go when it comes to being the best place it can be for women to work.
In an ideal world, what does the future of travel look like for women?
While women make up a significant portion of the travel industry, there is still a notable lack of representation in senior leadership positions and insufficient support for women’s health needs.
It would be inspiring to see more women in top roles, creating a more balanced and diverse leadership dynamic within companies. Imagine the impact on talent retention and recruitment if companies were truly committed to equal pay for equal work, offered transparent career advancement pathways for women, and provided mentorship and training programs specifically designed to develop women’s leadership potential.
Beyond that, enhanced maternity and paternity leave, as well as better return-to-work opportunities with flexible arrangements, should be a priority.
At Inside Travel Group, we’re actively working to create a Diversity and Inclusion Committee to champion equity throughout our organisation. It would be incredible to see this kind of initiative become the industry standard, paving the way for a more inclusive and empowering future for women in travel.
What are the challenges women face in travel and how can companies support them?
We all know the travel industry often involves irregular hours, frequent travel, and long workdays, which can impact a woman’s ability to balance family and career – particularly for those with caregiving responsibilities. Coupled with often lower pay scales, it’s no surprise that talent is being lost to higher-paying industries, making attracting new talent to the sector increasingly difficult.
The pandemic certainly forced businesses to be more open to flexible work options such as remote work, flexible hours or job-sharing arrangements, however, there is still much more that companies can do to stay competitive in terms of talent acquisition. Each business will have different needs, so it’s essential to engage with employees, understand what motivates them, and regularly assess policies and staff benefits to ensure they align with these needs.
Inside Travel Group is a B Corp, how does sustainability filter through to your role?
As a B Corp, Inside Travel Group is committed to balancing purpose and profit, prioritising sustainability and social responsibility in all aspects of its operations. This ethos naturally influences every role within the organisation, including mine.
Our vison is to build a global cultural adventure tour operator which, through applying the principles of B Corp, leads the travel industry towards a more sustainable future and protects travel for future generations. We believe passionately that travel can be a force for good in the world.
Each role at Inside Travel Group can have a meaningful impact on sustainability, from operational decisions to customer interactions. By embedding sustainability into daily activities, employees contribute to the company’s broader goals of social and environmental responsibility. It’s about taking small, consistent actions that collectively drive change.
In my role, sustainability extends beyond just using eco-friendly printing options and offsetting flights. It’s a core element of our storytelling, branding, and promotional strategies. It’s about educating and engaging both the trade and our clients. By raising awareness about sustainable travel options, we aim to inspire more people to embrace responsible tourism, ethical practices, and travel choices that support conservation, local economies, cultural heritage, and animal welfare.
Selling can be hard, what keeps you going?
I don’t view it as a purely transactional sale. When you’re truly passionate about the product and destination, it’s more about sharing unforgettable travel experiences and moments. When you genuinely believe in what you’re offering, it becomes less about the transaction and more about giving customers the chance to create their own memorable moments during their journeys.
What advice would you give to a woman entering the industry?
Learn to trust your instincts. As well as this, when interviewing for a position, ask thoughtful questions that give you an insight into the company’s values and overall culture. Since we spend a significant amount of time at work, it’s essential to find a company whose mission and values resonate with your own.
Even if you’re new to the industry, your perspective is valuable.
Seek out environments where mentorship is prioritised and are dedicated to fostering your professional development alongside the company’s growth. There’s plenty of opportunity for everyone to thrive together – don’t settle for working at a place that doesn’t recognise your value.
This interview is part of our Women in Travel series ahead of the 2024 Women in Travel Awards. The awards celebrate women who have achieved astronomic success in their professional arenas, celebrating their invaluable contribution to the industry through leadership, innovation and courage.
This year the theme is ‘Follow her lead’ and we’ll be championing the power of community and women in the industry working together to create the best experiences possible for Australian travellers.
Buy your tickets HERE.
Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au
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