Meet Entire Travel Group BDM, Roberta Abbondanza
Rome and Broome aren’t two places you’d normally associate with each other, but for Roberta Abbondanza they hold particular significance.
Find out why and plenty more about the new Entire Group BDM, including her advice for anyone starting out in the travel industry.
Q: What was your first ever job and what did you learn from it that you still use today?
A: I worked at an important auction house in Rome, my hometown, looking after English-speaking customers on site and over the phone during auctions.
I learned a great deal, in particular how to manage relationships with a varied clientele and how to work as part of a highly effective team.
Q: What’s the first thing you do when you start a new position?
A: I like to be well-organised and prepared, so before I even start in a role I gather as much information as possible about any aspect of my new position and its responsibilities.
Q: What advice would you give someone wanting to start a career in travel now?
A: Put passion into what you do! After the pandemic, I would also encourage them to be kind, patient and understanding with customers and themselves.
What we just went through had a different impact on every individual – we need to be mindful about this.
Q: What has the pandemic taught you about yourself?
A: I want to be passionate about all aspects of my life. Whatever I do, whoever I meet, I must have love and gratitude for that moment – that’s the key to being happy and not wasting your days, whether you are stuck at home or free to go out and about.
Q: Aisle or window seat?
A: Aisle – I can stand and stretch…and go to the toilet without having to ask permission every time!
Q: What’s the first thing you do when you get into the office?
A: Start the computer then, while it’s loading, go get a coffee… without it, I wouldn’t function properly!
Q: What are some of your favourite spots around the world?
A: Rome and Broome. After years living in Rome, I’m still discovering outrageously beautiful churches and ancient ruins and tombs… it’s a never-ending exploration.
Broome because I used to go there with my family every summer. Long strolls on Cable Beach, amazing sunsets, the reef that appears when the tide is incredibly low, Cape Leveque with its almost Martian red rocks… so many fond memories.
Q: What are you most looking forward to about your new role?
A: Sharing with agents what Entire Travel Group is really is about. Not only do we have an amazing history – with past brands such as French Travel Connection and CIT – but today we offer so many more destinations, wonderful pre-designed independent packages and extraordinary expertise.