We caught up with Cristina Cali who is the General Manager for Product at TravelOnline.com. She has more than 17 years of experience in the Travel and Tourism industry. Her passion for travel has taken her all around the world for business and leisure. She has worked in different roles in the Travel and Tourism industry, her marketing and business development skills helped her shift into key management roles within large companies.
I completed a Diploma of Tourism at South Bank Institute of Tafe, a course that came highly industry recommended. I’ve also undertaken a tertiary program through Southern Cross University to expand my skills to Tourism and Hospitality Sales and Promotion.
My current role, as General Manager of Product at TravelOnline.com encompasses everything from team leadership, marketing and sales and developing strong relationships with our suppliers including hotels, airlines and tourism bodies. I’m also involved in the overall business planning and improvement.
My day to day role varies, which is what I love about it! However, a typical day can involve everything from email marketing planning to working on projects, contracting and negotiating specials with suppliers, ensuring a smooth work flow for both myself and my team, ensuring we stay on schedule, as well as communication and cooperation with internal departments.
Cristina Cali from TravelOnline.com
Although there are some ‘technical’ skills associated with the systems used in this industry, these skills can be easily learnt and adapted to whichever systems are used in your workplace. However the essential skills to surviving and thriving in the fast-paced, ever-changing and always competitive travel industry are positivity, motivation, flexibility, organisation and attention to detail. In addition, the ability to listen to your team, motivate others and be open to new ideas will see you go far.
I love the variety that my role entails, the challenges that constantly crop up and keep things interesting, and the passion that is displayed for the travel industry.
Never stop learning and challenging yourself. Study and work hard. Attend every tradeshow/ roadshow that you can to develop your skills and product knowledge. Travel! It’s the best way to gain valuable knowledge. Expect to start at the bottom and set goals to work your way up to your dream role. Embrace change and be flexible. Stay positive and motivated. Always take feedback professionally and not personally.
I’m being challenged by and thoroughly enjoying my current role, so no new ‘next move’ on the horizon at present.
Thank You, Cristina for sharing your story with training.com.au
