The challenge for the industry is… Communicating with our customers. I am sure we all think we do a pretty good job of it at the moment, but the truth is that with the constant change in technology and communication platforms we need to be consciously changing with the times and looking at more innovative ways to interact with our audience. This is the same for product to trade partners as it is for retail to direct consumers.
The things I like about my job are… I love the diversity of my role. One minute I am speaking with key partners in Mexico and the next I am in the Whitsundays getting a run down from our East Coast Trip Leaders. I also really love the involvement with the marketing team – they are so creative, and ultimately we get to be a part of the journey of making people’s travel dreams come true!
And the frustrations… Not having enough hours in the day.
If I didn’t work in travel I would … Work in marketing. Most brands, no matter what industry, can combine travel into their marketing execution. Even banks sell credit cards on the dream of travel.
Qantas or Virgin? Tough one, Virgin domestically, but you can't trump Qantas for international and connectivity.
My proudest moment was… A few years ago when I was asked to speak at a social media in travel conference in San Francisco – and that people actually wanted to hear what I had to say.
The naughtiest thing I ever did was… Too many to choose from.
I try to relax by… Exercise and music.
The last time I feared for my life was… I don't think I ever have.
If I can, I always try to avoid… Negative people.
I really wish I had… A little more patience.
The best advice I’ve ever received was… 'The key to failure is trying to please everybody'. If you spend too much time trying to impress then you will never succeed. There will always be someone who doesn’t want to like you.
I don’t understand why… There is always a war going on somewhere in the world.
My greatest weakness is… The finer detail.
And my greatest strength… Looking at the bigger picture, but still working towards a simple goal. Getting the basis right is absolute key to success.
If I was prime minister I would… Appoint a Tourism Minister.
If I won $1 million on the lottery I would … Buy a boat.
If I could be someone else for one day I would be …. Obama – I'd like to learn a little more about these conspiracy theories…
I’ve always wanted to travel to… Galapagos Islands and to climb Kilimanjaro.
My favourite holiday was… Corn Islands, Nicaragua.
