Fresh from her NTIA 2025 win, TTC Tour Brands’ Jo Leckie is still glowing. The newly crowned Most Outstanding Sales Executive – Tour Operator embodies the best of the travel trade: connection, curiosity and an infectious can-do energy.
Chatting with Karryon, Jo shares her thoughts on growth, good vibes and why saying “yes” (and maybe a little Reese Witherspoon energy) goes a long way.
What does this award mean to you personally and professionally?
This award means so much to me. It’s been a year filled with growth, collaboration and genuine passion for what I do. Personally, it’s a proud moment that reminds me how far I’ve come and how much I’ve grown within TTC.
Professionally, it validates the power of building strong relationships with my incredible trade partners, staying authentic and truly showing up for my agents.
What are you most excited about that’s coming up for yourself or the industry more broadly?
I’m really excited about building momentum within the touring sector. There’s a real appetite for meaningful, connected travel experiences – the kind TTC Tour Brands does really well.
Personally, stepping into my new Field Sales Director role and joining the TIME mentorship program means I get to keep growing, learning and supporting others. The energy in our industry right now is electric and being part of shaping what’s next feels incredibly rewarding.
What does the future look like for you?
I’m really excited for what the future holds. I want to keep creating impact by empowering agents, strengthening trade partnerships and helping our brands stay front of mind for travellers.
On a personal level, I’m focused on evolving my leadership style through participation in the TIME program and leaning into the kind of coaching and connection that builds confident, capable sales teams.
What advice would you give anyone just starting in the industry?
This is a people business first and foremost. Success comes from being authentic, being a good listener and building genuine relationships. Seize the moment and take every opportunity to make the most of it.
What do you love most about your job and/or the travel industry?
I love the connection. Every day I get to work with passionate, creative people who share a love for travel and storytelling. Whether it’s celebrating an agent’s first booking or training new and experienced consultants and giving them the tools to make their clients travel dreams come true. It’s all about creating moments that matter for our partners and our guests.
Care to share a fun travel tip that you swear by when exploring new places?
Always say yes to the local experience! Even if it’s outside your comfort zone. Whether it’s trying a dish you can’t pronounce or chatting with a local on our Trafalgar Be My Guest experience. It’s those moments that make travel truly memorable.
Fun question… who’d play you in a movie?
Wow, this a tricky one. Probably Reese Witherspoon. She’s got that mix of warmth, determination and that little bit of fun that reflects how I approach life and work!
The NTIA 2025 gala brought together over a thousand professionals and stakeholders to honour excellence, innovation and resilience – and, of course, to party in true travel style. Read our wrap of the event and more here.
Images by Pat Brunet / Event Photos Australia (except group shot)
