London-based agency Swords Travel has recruited former If Only business development manager Carla Hutchings.
Hutchings joins the agency’s travel associate scheme with 19 years of experience, having previously worked for Thomas Cook, Hoseasons and Gold Medal/Travel 2.
She took voluntary redundancy from If Only last October and joined Swords after conversations with co-directors Mark and Stuart Swords and realising she missed selling travel.
“By being on furlough I’ve had a lot of time to think about what I actually want to do, so I approached them and they were delighted to get me on board, especially as they didn’t have anyone in the south,” she said.
“What I really like is that as well as being friends, they’re very professional and very well perceived in the industry. I like their model, I like the suppliers they work with and they focus on what I want to focus on so it seemed like an absolutely perfect fit.”
She added: “I just feel so happy. It’s a horrible time of year but I feel buzzing that I’m going to be working with them and back doing what I like.”
Swords Travel launched its travel associate scheme in July last year after changing its business model in light of the pandemic.
The Wimbledon-based agency initially took on four self-employed associates on a 60/40 commission-split basis and, including Hutchings, has now grown the team to seven.
The travel associates will predominantly work remotely while also having the benefit of using the agency’s shop should they need to hold a meeting or attend training.
“We are absolutely thrilled to have Carla joining our team of associates,” said Mark Swords. “Carla has a huge wealth of knowledge and experience, from initially starting as an agent, and then working for a number of high-profile tour operators in the industry.
“We can already see from Carla’s drive and passion that she will make a huge success of this new venture and we will be there to support her every step of the way.”