Like many in the travel industry, AAT Kings’ group marketing GM, Dianne Morgan, discovered her love of travel long before her career began. After finishing university, she moved to London and spent every spare moment backpacking across Europe.
In this Women in Travel interview with Travel Weekly, she reflects on her one regret about travelling solo, shares her best piece of career advice, and reveals why she admires Jacinda Ardern.
You can buy your tickets for Women in Travel here.
A woman you admire (in or outside travel)?
Jacinda Ardern. She recognised the need to evolve traditional leadership and did so by staying firmly anchored to her values. Rather than conforming to expectation, she leaned into her own compassionate, empathetic style—demonstrating that strength and kindness can successfully coexist. Leading through an extraordinary moment in modern history, she redefined what effective leadership can look like, especially for women.
Best piece of career advice you’ve ever received?
“Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.” The best outcomes are almost always the result of collaboration. Inviting input, support and perspective from colleagues and your team not only elevates the work, but also builds trust, shared ownership and better results than you could ever achieve alone.
Your favourite AAT Kings experience or itinerary?
Tasmania. It’s the perfect balance of natural beauty, history and flavour – where breathtaking landscapes meet rich storytelling, world-class produce, and unforgettable food and wine. All brought to life via our incredible Tour Directors who live and breath this destination. Make sure you try the Lavendar ice-cream when in Tassie, it is simple delicious!
One thing people might be surprised to learn about you?
I’m a passionate Dragon Boat and Outrigger paddler – an adventure that has taken me around the world, competing in destinations such as Prague, Hong Kong, Hawaii and the Cook Islands. It’s not only a competitive outlet, but a powerful way to clear the mind, connect with nature and stay grounded.
If you could give your younger self one travel experience, what would it be and why?
A Contiki tour. After university, I chose to travel solo – working in London and backpacking through Europe. It was a formative chapter that strengthened my independence, resilience and lifelong love of travel. But while solo adventure is empowering, I now appreciate that shared travel moments create bonds and memories that stay with you. I would encourage my younger self to experience both- the freedom of independence and the energy of shared discovery.
You can support Dianne and other women in the industry by coming along to this year’s Women in Travel Awards on the 3rd of December.
