I thought some of you might be interested to see what I’m going to be up to over the next few months! So here is my programme (subject to change!)
October – Dotcom
·Training and Familiarisation
·Project Management
·KWA + New Business Launch (Honeymoons Direct 2U)
November – Dotcom Marketing
·Ski marketing + Web content training
·Project 2 TBA
·AGM build up + Presentation
·KWA cont.
·TC Retail Ball + TC Proud Ball
December – Visits
·3 days Manchester airport
·1 week CSG (Bradford)
·3 days TCTV
·2 days Falkirk Sales Centre
·Management Conference Gran Canaria
January – Multimedia Sales
·Thomas Cook Direct Training
·Managing People training course
·2 weeks Birmingham Sales Centre
February – TBA
March – Yield
·Revenue Management
April – Retail Placement
·4 weeks in a TC retail outlet
·Shadow CSM, GM, RSM
May – Product
·Pagination
·Product Delivery
·Competitor Analysis
·Compile Weekly Trading Report
June – Business Operations
·Details TBA
July – Multimedia/Marketing + PR
It may seem like quite a lot of Multimedia, but to be honest that is the way the industry is going and I am very happy that I have a substantial amount of time working in Dotcom & Direct. Travel Agents can no longer operate out of high street shops and call centres. It’s simply not cost efficient or profitable. Thomas Cook (and all of our competitors) are downsizing retail outlet numbers, streamlining telesales centres and pumping millions into online initiatives (something we should have done 3-4 years ago). So, it’s a pretty exciting time to be here.
As for what will happen after the 12 month programme; your guess is as good as mine. I hear they are looking for a Director of Proctology ;)
Regardless, I feel I have joined a company that is fun and buzzing, but in need of a real shake up. Most importantly, I feel I am in a position where I can make a difference and strengthen my professional skills. My opinions (and Alex’s!) are valued and people are constantly getting me involved in new ideas and developments. Lets hope it lasts!