TAANZ’s latest Hall of Fame inductee, Andrew Bowman, has some advice for those starting in the industry.
“There’s no question that the travel agents have gone through a lot of trials and tribulations but if I was a young person, I would see this as a real vocation, a great way to develop skills and have their own business, have a good career and make money,’’ he said after being given the honour at the TAANZ NTIAs on Sat. Bowman (pictured left), with more than 40 years in ‘every corner’ of the industry, said rookies needed to know they can deliver excellent value for clients, and contribute back to the community.
TAANZ president Brent Thomas (pictured right) said Bowman had helped shape the foundations of the modern travel sector in New Zealand and was a leader, mentor and a lifetime champion for travel advisors. Bowman has experience in all aspects including retail, wholesale, brokers and corporate travel management and believed the honour was a reflection of his representing the whole industry.
‘’Whenever I’m in any forum it is all about representing the views of the whole industry,’’ says Bowman who has served as TAANZ president. He led the World Travel Agents Association Alliance during the Bowman’s Advice For The Next Gen pandemic and as travel emerged from the near shutdown five years ago. When he was first elected to head the international body he pushed to work more closely with the government in this country, pointing out that agents could have done a better job of managing MIQ.
At the awards ceremony, he said as an advocate he wanted his audience to know travel advisers were at top of mind but they needed to have their fingers on the pulse. “We’ve got to compete because in the eyes of customer, that’s what it’s all about.” Among other roles he is an independent director of New Zealand Travel Brokers, and he is a founding member of the TIME mentor scheme in New Zealand that Thomas says ensures the next generation of agents are equipped to succeed. “He connected people, championed better standards and always led with purpose.’’ Thomas says throughout the challenges of recent years Bowman has led with foresight. “His leadership during the pandemic was instrumental in helping guide the TAANZ board and members through immense uncertainty with clarity and steadiness.’’
This morning Bowman will still shocked but honoured by his win.
