Suzy Rand brings a breadth of cross-sector experience to her role as Business Development Manager at Travel Counsellors for Business, combining a strong commercial background with a passion for people and service.
“I started my career in a high-street travel agency as a manager, where I was for nearly 10 years,” Suzy says of her early career. “I then moved into sales within a software company, before a stint in utilities. I’ve also had roles in vehicle leasing and cyber security, so my career has spanned lots of sectors.”
That diverse experience has given Suzy a well-rounded understanding of the operational and financial pressures businesses face - insight she now brings to conversations with corporate clients.
“My typical day is reaching out to prospects via email, phone, and LinkedIn,” she explains. “I love speaking to people about their corporate travel and how they manage it. I have been lucky in my career to travel with work in the UK, Europe, and the US, so I feel this has helped me with my daily conversations.”
Through those conversations, Suzy has developed a clear picture of what organisations are looking for in a travel management company. “I feel a lot of companies want to make sure their people feel looked after so love our duty of care approach from start to finish,” she says. “They also want to feel we can help them with their travel policies to ensure budgets are aligned and they are getting the best value.”
One of her proudest professional moments came early in her journey with Travel Counsellors for Business. “The most rewarding would have to be the first customer I signed up for Travel Counsellors,” she shares. “I always go above and beyond for my customers, and I believe this starts with having a clear understanding of their needs and ensuring you deliver this with the best service you can give. I always make sure customers know they have ongoing support from both their dedicated Travel Counsellor and me. Understanding their business and their future plans helps to build longevity with the relationship.”
For businesses considering a switch to a new TMC, or partnering with one for the first time, Suzy’s advice is rooted in clarity and trust. “I would say long-term relationships are built on trust and deliverables,” she says. “Make sure you are clear on what your business expectations are and match this with a TMC who truly understands and works alongside your business and people.”
That human element is, in Suzy’s view, what truly differentiates Travel Counsellors for Business. “We are all about people and it’s our Travel Counsellors who have daily interactions with your business that make a real difference,” she says.
Looking ahead, Suzy sees technology reshaping the corporate travel world, but not replacing the reassurance clients value. “AI is massively changing the landscape and making our lives easier - this is why Travel Counsellors for Business is investing in keeping us ahead with how it can help business travellers and us as a TMC”, she says. “I think as much as this evolves, it won’t replace having the reassurance of a Travel Counsellor at the end of the phone when something goes wrong.”
If you’re considering switching your TMC or exploring managed travel for the first time, Suzy and the team would love to start a conversation about your business needs and future plans.
Get in touch with us today to discover how Travel Counsellors for Business can support your people, your policy and your long-term goals.
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With over 15 years’ experience in sales, Sam Parsons brings energy, insight and a people-first approach to business development at Travel Counsellors for Business. Read more about his views on the current landscape of business travel.