How I Became Commercial Director | Laura Busby

4 min read

Laura joined Good Travel Management this year as Commercial Director, leading the sales and account management teams to retain and grow the existing customer portfolio as well as attracting new business.

Here, Laura shares everything from how she got into the industry to her biggest challenges so far.

How did you first get into the corporate travel industry?

In early 2013, I found myself at a pivotal point in my life. I had just returned from a backpacking adventure that had taken me to various corners of the world. Whilst the allure of travel still beckoned, I was eager to start a new journey, one that would enable me to channel my passion for travel into a fulfilling career.

This desire led me to a Corporate Traveller, specifically to their London office, where I assumed the role of a Business Development Manager. It was my first step into the corporate travel industry, a field that would soon become a significant part of my life.

What has inspired your career?

One of my driving forces behind my career has been a mentor who played a transformative role in my life. She wasn’t just a boss but a guide who imparted valuable lessons and instilled in me the qualities of tenacity, authenticity, and strategic thinking. Her direct and encouraging style, along with a no-nonsense approach, left an indelible mark on me. Over eight years, she helped me evolve from a troublesome teenager into someone capable of leading a department of 80 staff. I often look to her influence when navigating the corporate travel industry, drawing upon her style of “telling it like it is” mixed with boundless enthusiasm.

My love for travel has been another significant source of inspiration in my career. Having explored nearly 80 countries, I’ve gained a profound appreciation for the diverse cultures, landscapes, and experiences that the world has to offer. This deep-rooted passion fuels my drive and commitment to the industry.

What are the biggest challenges in your role?

The corporate travel industry is known for its dynamic and fast-paced nature, which presents its own set of challenges. For me, the most significant challenge is managing my impatience. In a company as remarkable as the one I work for, with its distinctive offerings and potential, I’m eagerly waiting to unite all these strengths into a compelling sales proposition. I’m constantly striving to win over significant clients and make an impact as soon as possible.

What skills have been the most crucial to your success in the corporate travel industry so far?

Several skills have proven indispensable in my journey through the corporate travel industry:

  • Tenacity: The tenacity to persevere and pursue challenging objectives has been pivotal in my career. This quality drives me to overcome obstacles and keep pushing forward.

  • Effective Communication: Asking insightful questions and actively listening to the responses have been crucial for understanding clients and their needs. Effective communication strengthens relationships and builds trust.

  • Strategic Thinking: A knack for thinking differently and strategically allows me to approach challenges from various angles. This quality enables me to create innovative solutions.

  • Confidence in Being Authentic: Being confident in being oneself and staying true to one’s values is essential. Authenticity is a quality that clients appreciate and respect.

What education or training would be most useful for someone looking to follow your career path?

In terms of education and training for those considering a career in the corporate travel industry, I would advise being open to ongoing learning and self-improvement. This field is continually evolving, and staying updated with industry trends and best practices is crucial. Networking and building connections within the industry can also be highly beneficial.

On the job sales training and doing the hard yards is also useful, I started off lead sourcing and making 20 cold calls (as a minimum) per day. This teaches you everything about customer interaction and resilience.

What advice would you give to someone looking to follow your career path?

Get yourself a mentor to help guide you and offer advice. Work for a company which closely aligns to your personal values and outlook. You should ask lots of questions and listen!

Mostly importantly, work smart, but also work hard.

Inspired by Laura’s journey? Visit our careers page for information about our latest roles!

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