It may only be a little over six weeks into Andrew Burnes’ reign over at helloworld, but agents say they’re feeling confident about the future under his direction.
The travel group says it has had an “overwhelmingly positive” response from over 500 agents regarding the new CEO, with many saying they’re feeling “inspired” by their new leader.
Kylie Denham from helloworld Settlement City said she admires Burnes’ informative and succinct attitude when it comes to his vision for the future, while Rosemary Thomas from helloworld Niddrie admits she’s now feeling more “inspired and confident” about what’s ahead.
Another agent, Sue Todorovski from Imperial Travel Services believes Burnes is “on top of a lot of challenges” and Leonie Spencer from Company Lifestyle Travel in Ballarat appreciates his “strong leadership and understanding of the agency network”.
“Looking forward to what he is bringing to helloworld and especially the things to come.”
Leonie Spencer, Company Lifestyle Travel in Ballarat
Since stepping into the role, Burnes has initiated the company’s merger with the AOT Group and led a shakeup of the executive team.
He’s also been outspoken about various industry topics, including Flight Centre’s recent decision to open its wholesale products up to external agents and he’s reiterated his faith in the future of the helloworld business on several occasions.
Addressing agents at a recent State Meetings of the Branded and Associate networks, Burnes said his obligation is to the franchisee members and delivering more business through their door, phone or via the internet.
He outlined a number of changes to drive more business to agents including a re-alignment of the helloworld.com.au on-line portal, the development of more exclusive helloworld product, the evolution of in-store technologies to drive productivity and margin, greater support for the retail distribution model and a change in the marketing mix to focus on increasing enquiry and conversion rates for agencies and supplier partners.
He flagged the importance of retail distribution and of making sure consumers understand it and suppliers continue to support it.
“We are going to fight for the travel agent model and everything you bring to the table.”
Andrew Burnes, helloworld CEO
“I think enough ground has been given up to these on-line travel algorithms, as I like to call them, and we need to highlight the professionalism, advice, outcomes and service agents deliver to their customers.”
