Meet Our BDMs: Redefining business travel with Lou Jones

In the world of corporate travel, finding a partner who genuinely understands your business needs can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. It requires more than just technology or booking platforms; it demands a human touch. Meet Lou Jones, a Business Development Manager at Travel Counsellors for Business, whose passion for building relationships is reshaping how companies approach their travel management. 

With a rich background spanning over 15 years in travel sales, Lou brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to her role. This article explores her journey, her insights into the industry, and what makes the Travel Counsellors model a standout choice for businesses today. 

A journey through the travel industry 

Lou's career is a testament to her deep-rooted expertise in travel management. She began her journey at a tech-focused travel management company (TMC), where she gained a solid foundation in the mechanics of UK business travel. This experience provided her with a clear understanding of how technology can streamline processes and create efficiencies for clients. 

Seeking to broaden her horizons, Lou transitioned to a global TMC. There, she managed large-scale, international travel opportunities, which gave her a comprehensive view of the complexities involved in worldwide corporate travel. This role highlighted the importance of robust support systems and global networks in serving diverse client needs. 

In a move that added another layer to her skill set, Lou stepped outside the traditional travel sphere to work with a SaaS company specialising in finance technology. This experience gave her invaluable end-to-end insight into the entire travel and expense process, from booking to reconciliation. Now at Travel Counsellors, she combines this diverse experience to offer clients a truly holistic approach to their travel programs. 

A day in the life of a BDM 

One of the aspects Lou loves most about her role is its dynamic nature. No two days are the same for a Business Development Manager. Her schedule is a vibrant mix of activities focused on building connections and providing solutions. 

A typical week might involve: 

At the heart of all these activities is her genuine enjoyment of building relationships. "My main enjoyment is creating relationships with clients and colleagues alike," she says. "I could only sell something I believe in, and what Travel Counsellors offers is truly amazing." 

Insights on Modern Travel Management Challenges 

What Insights on modern travel management challenges 

With her finger on the pulse of the industry, Lou has a clear view of the hurdles businesses face today. She notes that while every company has its own specific issues, a few common themes emerge. 

“Cost remains a significant factor, but it’s often intertwined with the cost of change. Businesses are cautious about overhauling their systems, even if the long-term benefits are substantial. Another major challenge is technology. Travellers often think they need all the bells and whistles," Lou observes. “but when that tech fails, they're left wondering what to do next. This highlights the critical need for reliable human support behind the technology.” 

Keeping up with industry changes, from new regulations to evolving supplier policies, is also a constant struggle. Her advice? "Use the experience of your TMC and its people. That knowledge is invaluable." 

What sets Travel Counsellors apart

When asked what makes Travel Counsellors different, Lou's answer is clear and confident. "We are happy and proud to stay in our ‘swim lane.’ We know what we're good at, and we don't try to be something we're not." 

This focus is rooted in a care-led, not tech-led, approach. While technology is a vital enabler, it’s the human element that truly defines the service. The company's values are not just words on a wall; they are lived and breathed by everyone in the organisation. "The service our Travel Counsellors give our clients is second to none," Lou asserts. "It’s nothing like I’ve experienced before in the travel industry." 

If you’re seeking more travel advice or want to experience a people-first approach to travel management, get in touch today.