Gail Hunter, personal assistant to managing director and contracts executive for worldwide attractions, Seligo
Education: 11 0′ levels and two A’ levels. Two-year advanced interpreter, translator and secretary course at Solihull College of Technology which gained her numerous secretarial, language and business qualifications. Also a member of the Institute of Linguists after achieving a diploma in French.
Career path: first permanent position after leaving college was as secretary to the managing director at Hickin Exhibitions, based at the NEC in Birmingham. Moved to work for a French sales company again as secretary to the managing director. Two years later, she saw an advertisement for a new branch of Credit Lyonnais, the French bank, opening in Birmingham and was offered the position of trainee corporate banking officer. She worked her way up to foreign-exchange dealer for all the large corporates within the Birmingham area. However, two years ago, the branch was closed down. She then saw the advert for PA to managing director of Seligo, and thought it sounded interesting. She went for an interview and started the job in December 1997 and in March of the following year felt she could take on more responsibility, and was given the opportunity to get involved in contracting for Seligo.
Advice for people wishing to develop a career in travel: “Don’t ever feel it is too late to make the move – never feel pigeon-holed. Although I was very fortunate to obtain my current position with so little experience of the industry, it can be done. It is hard work but very enjoyable. Therefore, if you see a position advertised you feel is definitely what you are after, always go for it – never think you do not have the necessary experience/qualifications, as this industry is full of diversity – and if you don’t try you’ll never know.