Former Sandals and Beaches Business Development Manager Lorraine Adams has joined Halstead Travel, which opened its first shop last month.
Lorraine was London and South East BDM for Unique Vacations, which represents Sandals and Beaches, for almost 25 years, before she left in April.
At the time she said she wanted to focus on her wedding, which took place at Sandals South Coast, Jamaica, in June, before thinking about her next move.
She’s now working part-time with Halstead Travel owner Arline Sloan, who ran the company as a homeworking business for eight years before setting up a shop in Coggeshall, Essex, in September.
Arline said: “Lorraine and I have known each other for nearly 25 years, frequently bumping into one another at travel events. I’ve attended a few of her training sessions, and we’ve kept in touch and become friends.
“A few weeks ago, Lorraine and I had a catch up on the phone. She mentioned she was looking for something part-time, so I suggested she might like to join us at Halstead Travel on a zero-hours contract.
“I honestly wasn’t sure if she’d want to be back behind a desk, but I was so delighted when Lorraine agreed.
“Lorraine is amazing and has a wealth of travel experience which is a huge asset to Halstead Travel. The public will love her just like the industry does.”
Lorraine last worked in an agency when she was a consultant at Lunn Poly in Chislehurst between 1998 and 2000, before joining Sandals. Before that she spent 12 years overseas working for tour operators.
She said: “Being back behind the desk learning about different products and areas to sell has been a breath of fresh air.
“In my day there wasn’t AI, online training, or such a diverse range of holidays to showcase to customers. The online training is brilliant as it’s so easy it is to learn more about differences between brands, new hotels and flights.
“I have been excited to interact with customers to find the perfect holiday for them. I impressed myself with my extensive knowledge of the many destinations I have personally worked and lived in.
“Working for an independent agency such as Halstead Travel, which is part of Independent Travel Experts and The Travel Network Group, gives customers so much more products to sell and more flexibility.”
Pictured, from left, Lorraine and Arline.
