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.
Customer services after-care clerk
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 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!
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.
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.
Social media content and engagement executive
What do you do?
My role involves creating and managing aspects of the company’s social media presence, from our recruitment channels to holiday-related content, as well as assisting our retail, homeworking and contact centre teams with social media.
How did you get into this role?
I began as a retail apprentice and later joined the contact centre, selling holidays over the phone and online. Doing this role helped me develop strong digital skills. I then branched out to join our social media team.
Did you always want to work in the travel industry?
I didn’t – though I did have a dream of being a waterslide tester! My passion was ignited from my personal experiences – exploring new cultures and destinations. I’ve been lucky enough to visit different countries and try out cruise ships through working at Hays Travel. Some even had waterslides…
What is your dream destination?
There are still so many places but the one I’m constantly looking at is Australia. I’ve heard so many stories about how amazing it is.
What would you like to do in the future?
I absolutely love my job at Hays Travel and the people, experiences and dynamic nature of the travel industry. It’s a career that allows me to blend my passion for travel with my professional growth. I can honestly envisage myself staying at Hays Travel forever, continually growing with the company.
Did anyone try to put you off working in travel?
I’ve been lucky to always have support and encouragement from those around me. That’s made pursuing my career in travel an even more rewarding experience.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of a career in travel?
Follow your passion and take the leap. Be curious, stay informed about travel trends and embrace continuous learning. It’s a vibrant, people-centric and dynamic industry with endless opportunities. Explore different roles, as the skills you acquire in one position can seamlessly transfer to others to make you an attractive candidate for future opportunities.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced and worthwhile job with outstanding opportunities, generous bonuses and a fantastic team spirit, Hays Travel offers plenty to smile about – visit careers.haystravel.co.uk or ask in any Hays Travel branch.
