The chief medical officer at Allianz Global Assistance takes some time to talk blizzards at 6,000m and the increasingly complex needs of travellers.
The challenge for the industry is… continuing to meet the medical needs and expectations of travellers across diversely different health care systems in an increasingly complex world.
The things I like about my job… the people I work with, the vast diversity of the work I do and the fact that it can make a difference to others.
And the frustrations are… essentially always being “on call” although I wouldn’t be doing it if I didn’t enjoy it.
If I didn’t work in travel I would be… trying to making movies. Although the few short films I have made are probably best forgotten.
Favourite airline? Any that recognises my bag and I are close knit travelling companions that don’t like to be separated.
My proudest moment was… recognising that my children have grown into well grounded, resilient and empathic individuals.
The naughtiest thing I ever did was… when I was 18 so I think I can be forgiven by now.
I try to relax by… running – which unfortunately seems to get harder each year.
The last time I feared for my life was… when caught in a blizzard attempting to climb a 6000m peak in Tajikstan.
If I can, I always try to avoid… embarrassing my daughters on social media.
I really wish I had… more time to spend with family.
The best advice I’ve ever received was… on the day when I was planning to officially withdraw from my final emergency medicine specialist training exam – it was a single word. Don’t!
I don’t understand why people… can’t always get along or resolve their issues over a shared cup of coffee.
My greatest weakness is… my daughters.
And my greatest strength is… my ability to problem solve.
If I won $1 million lottery (aside from travelling), I would… change nothing.
If I was prime minister I would… change everything.
If I could be someone else for one day I would be a… film director.
I’ve always wanted to travel to… Cuba.
