Meet the facilitator: Renee

Renee is one of our NSW Course Facilitators and has been in the travel industry for over 10 years. Today we chat with Renee about her journey in the industry and her tips for students on how to create a successful career in travel too!

Could you tell us a little bit about the different roles you have worked in the industry?

I have been working in the wonderful world of the Travel and Tourism Industry now for 10 years. I started out in a wholesale role selling Indonesian products and services through to the retail travel agent and onto the traveller. I then moved into a retail travel agent role in 2010 with the Flight Centre Travel Group. With a full first year of successes, I became the store manager of my first Flight Centre business. Now, I have been able to facilitate the wealth of knowledge that lies within the travel industry to my students within the Flight Centre Travel Academy.

What has kept you in this industry for so long?

I must say that the passion of travel from my fellow employees is definitely a key driver as to why I cannot imagine working in any other industry. Flight Centre Travel Group has been a wonderful company to be a part of, and the culture of this business is inspiring.

What lead you to become a trainer at Flight Centre Travel Academy?

Whilst in store leading my team, I found that my strengths of encouragement, education and leadership were what stood out the most and therefore where my passion lies. Being able to transition my knowledge and strengths of understanding the industry and leading people to success whether in a role or for their own purpose and mastery, was what led me to become a facilitator with the Travel Academy.

Is there a particular conference, work trip, global or buzz night that has been a standout?

The conferences, buzz nights and global balls have all been amazing to be a part of, although my very first global ball in 2015 with my team at the Travel Academy would have to be a standout. Being able to celebrate our successes together over in Las Vegas was an incredible moment that I will never forget.

Seeing passionate Flight Centre Travel Group employees from all different brands and businesses across the globe come together to share, celebrate and network with each other their passion for the industry was amazing to witness and be a part of.

What advice do you give your classes when talking to them about landing a job after they graduate?

Give it everything you have got! If this is your passion and you are hungry for knowledge, awareness and skills, don’t give up. Put your best foot forward from the very beginning and be proud of your wins, whether big or small. Don’t stress out if you don’t understand something right away, we are here to help you.

What do you think is important for our students to know to creating a successful, life-long career in travel?

Always learn. Immerse yourself into the industry through articles, networking and of course travelling. Absorb information from all that are already a part of the industry and grow and learn from these experts.

Keep your head high and develop your knowledge in your areas of opportunity. Find something that motivates you, drives you and inspires you and use this as your guide to your success.