With a combined industry experience of 76 years, long-standing FBI Travel advisors Deb Zimmermann and Vera Schwartzbord are hanging up their headphones for the last time to enjoy a well-earned retirement.
FBI Travel CEO & joint Managing Director Mark Chaskiel paid tribute to Zimmermann and Schwartzbord and their time with the independent agency across different iterations, crediting them for helping to create and shape the company culture and inspire others.
“We celebrate two incredible careers and say ‘farewell’ to two amazing colleagues and friends. Deb has been with us for an extraordinary 40 years and Vera for 36 years. That’s not just tenure, that’s a lifetime of dedication, passion and care,” he said.
Zimmermann was remembered for her commitment to the award-winning Melbourne-based business, often working into the evenings at the Kooyong Road office, and Schwartzbord for her passion and ideas, usually expressed in lengthy emails.
Mark Chaskiel, independent travel advisor & former Freeway Travel owner Willie Best & advisor
Deb Zimmermann.
Chaskiel said the duo had a knack for building trusted relationships that went beyond booking trips to make their clients’ travel dreams a reality.
“Both Deb and Vera share a rare gift: the ability to build relationships that were sometimes deep, always personal and always genuine,” he said.
“Their clients didn’t just book trips, they trusted them with their dreams, and that trust was earned through warmth, integrity and countless conversations that went far beyond itineraries.
“As you step into retirement, we wish you joy, health and maybe a few adventures of your own – without having to check anyone else’s flight times!”
Find out more at fbitravel.com.au
