Membership group HR in Travel launches to connect and empower travel sector HR professionals
The travel industry has taken a significant step toward fostering a stronger community and support network for its human resources and people management professionals. Best Workplaces in Travel has launched HR in Travel, the first membership group exclusively designed for HR and People professionals within the travel sector. This initiative marks a pioneering move to connect professionals who play a critical role in shaping workplace culture and employee experience in travel organisations.
Founding members of HR in Travel are drawn from a broad spectrum of the industry, including HR directors, legal experts, thought leaders, and change makers. Notable figures include Gail Kenny, founder of Best Workplaces in Travel; Jo Harley, co-founder of Korero; Nicky Lyle, HR/People Director at Hotelplan UK; Danny Waine, co-founder of ITT Future You; and Victoria Wilson, Chief People Officer at Travel Counsellors. The group aims to deliver value through a comprehensive directory, practical insights, and innovative ideas accessible via exclusive, invite-only events throughout the year. The first such event is scheduled for September 4 at Grant Thornton in London, signalling a prompt activation of the community following its launch.
This new membership community emerges shortly after the 2023 Best Workplaces in Travel awards, held in London on June 13, which celebrated excellence across the sector in categories such as Best Small Company, Best Mid-size Company, Best Large Company, We Try Harder, and Happiest Workplace. Winners included Panache Cruises, EasyJet Holidays, Jet2 Holidays, Ski Solutions, and Santa Claus Trips. These awards underscore the importance of employee engagement and satisfaction in improving the travel industry’s reputation as an employer, highlighting firms that invest deeply in their workforce.
The launch of HR in Travel is poised to build on the momentum generated by the 2023 awards. It aims to provide a dedicated platform where HR professionals can exchange real-world experiences, leverage collective expertise, and explore new strategies tailored to the unique challenges of the travel sector. By fostering collaboration among HR leaders and practitioners, the community also seeks to drive innovation in employee engagement and organisational development, areas that are increasingly critical as the travel industry navigates evolving workforce dynamics.
Travel HR professionals interested in joining the community can sign up via hrintravel.com ahead of the group’s official launch following the Best Workplaces in Travel awards ceremony. This initiative is expected to not only enhance peer support but also raise the profile of people management within travel companies, encouraging best practices and elevating industry standards.
Overall, HR in Travel represents a timely and focused effort to empower those shaping the people strategies behind successful travel organisations. By providing access to thought leadership, networking opportunities, and practical resources, the membership group aims to contribute significantly to the ongoing transformation of workplace culture across the travel sector.