Ireland
Focus on Emma’s programme management career at Carlson Wagonlit Travel
After studying in London, Emma took her first steps into the Irish travel industry before joining CWT in 2007. She’s been climbing the career ladder since then...
“I’ve found a true career path here at CWT. The opportunities to develop and travel are there if you’re up for the challenge”
In one sentence, I would describe my job as:
Varied, exciting, challenging - I learn something new every day.
The first thing I do when I get into work is:
Check my emails, followed by a review of my to-do list for the day but things can always change.
The best thing about working at Carlson Wagonlit Travel:
The best thing for me is working with a great team of people, especially my colleagues in the programme management department in Ireland and the extended team in the UK.
It’s a really supportive environment and I’m happy to call many of them my friends outside of the office.
Top 3 highlights at Carlson Wagonlit Travel so far:
1 Travelling to New York with a small group of clients, courtesy of Delta airlines to familiarise the clients with the Delta product and Fitzpatrick hotels.
2 Winning Award for Best Corporate Travel Agency in Ireland - it was the first year of this award and CWT Ireland won it. Now we just have to keep it!
3 Managing one of the largest accounts in CWT Ireland. The level of responsibility is a buzz, even though it’s challenging.
Most challenging aspect of my job:
Managing my workload and time. CWT Ireland is a busy and energetic place to work; there are always new projects to be involved with.
My path to success goes something like this:
I studied BSc Tourism in London before landing a position at Aer Lingus in reservations and group sales. This was followed by a job at Air France/KLM within the sales support team. While at Air France/KLM I met Lisa Whelan (now CWT Ireland’s country director). I moved to CWT’s programme management team in September 2007 and after a successful few years I was promoted to senior programme manager in January 2011.
What I’ve learnt and how I’ve developed:
- Don’t isolate yourself- CWT is a big company and learning about other areas of the business really helped me to understand how the whole jigsaw fits together.
- A person can only do so much in one day- it’s important to take time to clear your head and reassess, taking a quick walk at lunch can help to refocus your mind.
- Good relationships with my customers make life much easier! It is of course vital to my role to build relationships, but the more solid these become the easier it is to resolve challenges because the customer really trusts and believes in me.
My favourite/memorable travel destination:
Maldives – it’s the true definition of paradise! There are turquoise seas and beautiful secluded white beaches all around the island. Total relaxation and pure luxury – heaven.
When I’m not working at Carson Wagonlit Travel, I like:
Walking, cycling, and most of all, catching up with my friends and family. I also love going to shows and concerts.
If you’re thinking of working at Carson Wagonlit Travel, I’d say:
Definitely go for it. CWT is a great company to work for; there are so many opportunities to develop your career – and we have fun too!
“I met Emma 4 years ago when she started working for CWT. Since then she has become a firm
friend and I would trust her with anything. She is endlessly helpful and will always give you her
time.”.
Orla, CWT programme manager
You too can work for CWT
If you’re looking for career progression at a fun and friendly workplace, join Ireland’s leading travel management company.
Read about more CWT jobs
You too can work for CWT
If you’re looking for career progression at a fun and friendly workplace, join the UK’s leading travel management company.