The Hays Travel Career Pathway

Careers guide

The Hays Travel Career Pathway

From early-career roles to reaching senior leadership, everyone at Hays Travel has the chance to grow and learn together.

Hays Travel is the UK’s largest independent travel agency. It’s a fun and friendly place to work, where colleagues receive a balance of support, training and autonomy to enjoy fulfilling and rewarding careers as they progress through the organisation. 

With a clear progression pathway, employees at Hays Travel receive tailored support to develop a career based on their skills and ambitions in an inclusive and nurturing environment. Hays Travel is proud of the many examples of its employees moving into different areas of the business, including progressing to the senior leadership team. Find out what six Hays Travel team members, each at various stages of their careers, have to say.

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APPRENTICE

Emmie Insull joined Hays Travel as an apprentice in the Allestree branch in 2022. 

“When I joined Hays Travel straight from school, I lacked confidence and didn’t know much about the travel industry. With help from my wonderful colleagues and family, I have grown so much and built skills that help me in my job role and in everyday life. I love the opportunities Hays Travel has given me to expand my knowledge and represent the company.”

CAREER SWITCHER

Jon Berridge completed the Hays New to Travel course and became a personal travel consultant after 20 years working in education.

After the pandemic, I felt my work-life balance was all wrong. I have always loved travel and enjoy planning trips, so this felt like a natural step. The Hays training was brilliant. I’m only a few months into trading, but I’m amazed at how busy and successful I’ve been. I love the freedom and flexibility that being self-employed gives me. Most importantly, I do not feel alone – I am part of a team who genuinely care for each other.”

HIGH FLYER

Callum Abraham joined as an apprentice in 2021, progressing to branch manager within three years.

“Everyone at Hays Travel is so friendly and will always do their best to help you. I never feel afraid to ask questions and I know there is support whenever I need it. I love meeting new people every day and being able to help them find their perfect holiday. No two days are the same, which keeps the job fresh and exciting.”

RISING STAR

HR advisor Charlotte Coleman joined as a retail apprentice before applying for a role at head office and completing the Rising Stars programme.

“I didn’t want to go to sixth form or college when I left school, so I started an apprenticeship and completed it with a distinction. Two years later I joined our people services department, from where I’ve progressed to HR advisor. Hays Travel is a great company to work for as there is always an opportunity for development.”

ASPIRING MANAGER

Ross Fagan joined Hays Travel in 2016 as a digital marketing apprentice and is now trade engagement partner for Vista, Hays Travel’s in-house tour operator.

“After my apprenticeship, I joined the New to Travel course. I progressed to contact centre supervisor and then social media sales team leader, which allowed me to complete the Aspiring Managers Programme. After a few years, I started my current role, where I travel across the UK meeting our agent partners and helping them grow their Vista business as well as taking them on educational trips – most recently to Qatar and Mexico. There are so many opportunities in the travel industry so don’t hold back, you won’t regret it!.”

ASPIRING LEADER

Harriet Thompson joined Hays Travel as an apprentice in 2006. Having completed rising stars training, a management NVQ and the Aspiring Leaders programme, Harriet was recently promoted to head of the Hays Travel Independence Group

“I thoroughly enjoyed the Aspiring Leaders course. The training days were always thought-provoking, providing an open, honest and safe environment where you could be yourself, speak freely, and really delve deep alongside inspiring colleagues.”

AT THE TOP

Jonathon Woodall-Johnston, chief operating officer of Hays Travel, started his career as an apprentice. 

“Many of our senior leaders who began their career as apprentices are viewed as realistic role models to our new starters. They are approachable and empathetic to colleagues at different stages of their journey, having been through it themselves, so there is a culture of mutual respect.”