To celebrate the theme of women entrepreneurs, business mentor and panel moderator Alessandra Alonso speaks to two successful businesswomen, Mandy Nickerson and Patricia Rossello-Evans.
- For updates on the programme, follow Alessandra at @WTMWomen
Mandy Nickerson
Managing director, Hexagon Travel (formerly managing director of Bales Worldwide)
What attracts you to running your own business?
Initially, Bales wasn’t my business. My father founded it in 1947. I was lucky enough to be one of the shareholders and also had an avid interest and enthusiasm in working for the business. I eventually ran it and it was just great.
I’m something of a maverick and we can find it hard to knuckle down into corporate life. But I think that’s better than being a “yes” person who doesn’t actually believe in all the ideas they say “yes” to.
Do you think the travel industry is dominated by men?
No, not for one minute. There has always been a far greater number of women in the industry and at one time they were the foot soldiers and the middle management - but that was many years ago. At one time it would have been difficult to name 20 women at the top but now I could successfully list at least 50 names.
It is a reflection of many industries, which used to be dominated by men at the top but all this is changing - albeit slowly.
What has been your greatest achievement so far?
My determination and dogmatic approach to do something that was going to be good for the company despite the adverse beliefs of others. I made Bales a more modern company with a wider portfolio of products while staying true to the values that were part of our successful formula.
What is success to you?
This has changed over the years. Success looks different to everyone. Originally my success was totally work orientated but now it is much more balanced - successful relationships, family and friends - watching our children becoming outstanding young gentlemen and a lady in this world with good work ethics, good manners, kindness and great social skills.
As much as it sounds twee, it is about a better balance of life, whereas at one time I leaned more heavily towards the work side.
What are your strengths in business and what have you had to learn?
It was and still is important to follow up and to communicate well in order to earn respect. It’s like a game of snakes and ladders - be respectful of people when you are on your way up because you never know when you are going to fall down.
What are your top tips for a young, ambitious female entrepreneur?
Go for it. You don’t want to live with regrets for not trying something you believe in. Be prepared for some lean times, seek the right financial advice and support, and aim to grow at a pace you can support.
Patricia Rossello-Evans
Founder of PR Palmer Consulting (formerly commercial director at Lowcostholidays.com)
What attracts you to running your own business?
There is no greater reward and feeling than seeing an idea develop and flourish into a product or service, knowing that your team believes in it and pushes it in the same direction. Running your own business is not easy, and is sometimes frustrating as many factors influence results, such as economy, demand, legislation, staff and technology.
It’s like being the conductor of an orchestra where all the instruments must play the same tune to deliver the right melody.
Do you think the travel industry is dominated by men?
I always thought my young age when I started out was more of a disadvantage than being a woman. There were occasions when both men and women tested my knowledge and my experience before signing a contract or a deal because of my age. I have been extremely fortunate in life to count on my parents’ help to look after my son, and somehow I never found it uncomfortable or intimidating working in a male-dominated industry.
What has been your greatest achievement so far?
I set up Resorthoppa, the first shuttle transfer specialist to enable dynamic package operators to complete their service delivery. Today it has become a commodity and a must for all OTAs. Resorthoppa was partly sold to venture capitalist funds and finally a 100% sale took place in 2009 to the Lowcosttravel Group. I then joined the Lowcosttravel Group as chief commercial officer, running the buying for the group until a few months ago. I have recently set up my own consultancy firm.
What are your business strengths and what have you had to learn?
My strengths are my organisational skills and my analytical approach to practically everything, I run life by spreadsheets. Everything comes down to numbers, as well as common sense and a huge sense of responsibility. I guess most mothers develop this latter skill automatically! I had to learn and am still learning about technology and the way techies speak and operate. I’m getting there!
If you were starting out today, would you choose this sector again?
Absolutely. The travel industry is very rewarding, when you take into account the travelling, the exposure to different cultures, the languages, the countries you visit and of course, the people you meet and do business with. There is no dull day in travel, whether it’s strikes, volcanoes or legislation. Ours is an industry constantly impacted by social, economical and political aspects of life. It’s always evolving and so enchanting.
Who have been your greatest role models?
Funnily enough they are all men! My father for his hard work and charm, my business auditor for teaching me how to deal with many aspects of the business professionally and with grace… and my husband for reminding me everyday the meaning of the word “determination”.
What’s on
Secrets of Successful Female Tra-Preneurs
Successful women entrepreneurs in the travel industry share their life and business lessons
- Tuesday November 4, 2-3pm
- South Gallery 13-14
Women, Human Rights and the Travel Industry. Helping or Hindering the Future of Women?
Women are being subjected to all sorts of abuses in many countries around the world
- Wednesday November 5, 12.30-1.30pm
- South Gallery 13-14
