Former SPAA President and independent agency owner Joanne Dooey has paid tribute to her ex-boss, former Going Places Head of Sales Nigel Harris, who died suddenly a few days ago, aged 65.
Joanne, who runs four-branch Scottish agency Love to Travel said: “Nigel was one of those people you meet who totally inspires you.”
Nigel worked for Going Places until just before its merger with Thomas Cook in 2007. Joanne worked for Going Places as a Branch Manager then a Regional Manager, reporting to Nigel.
She added: “He was a legend, a true gentleman and a fabulous boss. He was strict and made you work your butt off, but he looked after you. He drove you hard, but he really did get results. He was a lovely, lovely man, great fun and highly respected. I’ve never met anybody like him.
“He taught me so much. I wouldn’t have had the balls to open my own agencies if it wasn’t for him.”
A social media post by Nigel’s daughter said he passed away suddenly. She invited people to join the family to celebrate his life on 30 June, his birthday.
The celebration will take place at the Angel Inn, Blyth, at 5.30pm.
Pictured, top right: Nigel and wife Mandy; bottom left: Nigel and staff members with Coronation Street actor Bill Tarmey, who opened a Going Places shop.
