Tomorrow's Travel Leaders: 30 Under 30: Jade Williams

In collaboration with TTG Digital, the ITT and Guoman Hotels, C&M Travel Recruitment set out to discover the 30 Under 30 - the most dynamic and inspiring people aged 30 years and younger in the travel industry.

Here we profile Jade Williams, functional account manager at Travelport GDS.

Q: What advice do you have for other young people looking to secure a travel job and make their mark in the industry?

A: "I would advise that experience is the key - hands-on working within the industry is better than any college course out there.

"If you find a company that will provide a good industry recognised work as you learn course, then this will allow you to go get your industry qualifications as you gain experience - and earn a salary, which is always a good thing!"

Q: Why did you initially want to get involved in the travel industry?

A: "My brother already worked in the industry and, after completing work experience with him, I kind of caught the bug."

Q: How does it feel to be in the final 30 of Tomorrow's Travel Leaders?

A: "It's really nice to know that today's leaders can see the potential that I have to be a leader of tomorrow. It's great to hear some of the stories of some of the well-known industry people and see the paths they have taken to be where they are today."

Q: Were you surprised to be nominated?

A: "It was a lovely surprise."

Q: Has the recognition had any impact on your career?

A: "I started a new job at Travelport back in October and an article was published on our company intranet about Tomorrow's Travel Leaders - through this I have spent time talking about my experiences as an agent with numerous colleagues, and given advice to colleagues and clients from an agent's perspective."