Amanda PhillipsWhat age did you leave school?
I left school when I was 15
What were your thoughts on your career at that time?
I always knew I wanted to work in the travel industry and thought I might become an air stewardess. However, leaving school at 15, I had a few years yet until I could be considered!
What brought you to Barrhead Travel?
I decided to join an employability course. My mentor helped me apply for various travel agencies and three months later I landed an interview with Barrhead Travel for a Modern Apprenticeship in the sales team. However, during my apprenticeship, I had the opportunity to upskill in a number of different departments and found myself enjoying working in the marketing team and so my apprenticeship programme was altered and I was offered a Marketing Executive position when I graduated from my apprenticeship.
How have you progressed since then?
I gained great experience in the marketing team before moving over to the Business Development Team where I was later promoted to Senior Business Development Executive. I worked hard, took on more responsibility and became the Business Development Manager. Recently after an internal restructure my role changed once more to Business Development and Product Manager which are two teams that I have aligned with a total of eight staff.
I never once thought I would be in the position I am in today! Barrhead Travel has a huge progression focus and I worked hard towards my Personal Development Plan which led me to the role I am in today.
What has been the highlight of your career?
One of my main achievements is mentoring and progressing my team based on the skills I learned along the way. I take great pride in ensuring my team have the same opportunity that I had/ have for career progression.
Another achievement I am proud of is being recognised in the TTG 30 Under 30 scheme launched to shine a light on individuals under 30 who have made an ‘outstanding contribution to their business’
What advice would you give someone based on your experience?
No matter what grades you achieve, there is always a successful career path awaiting every individual that wishes to succeed. I didn’t attend college or university and my grades weren’t the best, but I got to exactly where I hoped I would with hard work and determination.