What does it mean to you to win the ITM ‘One to Watch’ Award? 

It felt like a wonderful reward for the hard work I have put in over the last couple of years, and the challenges I have overcome. I met Leanne Fowler, my mentor, after returning to work from maternity leave. I had been made redundant shortly after giving birth and so was also starting a brand-new job. She really was a lifeline to me and helped me pick myself up when my confidence was at an all-time low. I wanted to make her proud and thank her for everything she did for me, so winning this award really felt like I had done that. 

How did you get into business travel?

I had just graduated with a degree in politics from Nottingham University and was about to start applying for jobs with local MPs and in local government. I needed a job while I did this, so started work as a Sales Executive for a hotel company called City Inn, who were opening a hotel in Manchester…..and then I never left! 

What do you enjoy most about your role?

Really understanding our clients, what their objectives are, how their business works and the solutions we can provide for them. I suppose what underlies that is a genuine interest in people and building strong long-lasting relationships that stand the test of time. Also, I love the people I work with and the culture we have at SilverDoor – it’s truly special and I believe it really makes us the best at what we do. 

What advice would you give to someone who wants to pursue a career in business travel?

Go for it! The business travel industry is so much about building real, human connections and finding innovative ways of overcoming challenges.

What are you seeing as the biggest challenge in business travel over the next 12 months?

I think that the biggest challenge is being able to report accurately on carbon emissions. It really needs collaboration between all parties, and I really hope we are able to get to where we need to be. The right conversations are happening, and I know how seriously we take it as a business, but we need everyone to be on the same page to achieve our collective goals. 

If you could change one single thing in business travel, what would it be?

I think this has changed a lot, but based on my experience I feel there could be more support for parents coming back to work after maternity or paternity leave. ITM was my support system but I can appreciate not everyone is fortunate enough to have such a strong support network.

What’s the favourite place you’ve travelled to and why?

Hong Kong. I went there for work in my twenties and love the atmosphere and the people. 

What would be your Desert Island item?

Can I take my ITM mentor, Leanne Fowler, please? (Not sure if that’s allowed!)