A travel industry veteran shares her favorite things about the job, insights from the biz, and how a healthy work-life balance keeps her going.
Here at JTB Business Travel, we love introducing and celebrating members of our team and, with International Women’s Day coming up on March 8, there’s no better time than now to highlight some of our favorite women and their success stories within the travel industry.
Today, meet Sandi Morton. A member of our sales and marketing team since 2017, and a current senior account manager based in Phoenix, Arizona, she boasts more than three decades of experience in travel. Keep reading to learn more about what Sandi’s work life looks like on a daily basis, her personal life motto, and how those around her who take care of themselves, body, mind and soul, inspire her every day (fun fact: some of Sandi’s favorite ways to take care of herself include hobbies such as tennis, pickleball, hiking and paddleboarding!).
How long have you been with the company?
Almost seven years.
What do you like most about your job?
My team and advocating for our clients.
What inspires you?
People who are kind, supportive, and take care of themselves, body, mind and soul.
What does a usual day look like for you?
It can be different every day. I’m usually on quite a few internal and external client calls and Teams meetings. I have a large portfolio of business travel accounts that all have different goals and needs. I may be preparing data analytics, running reports, consulting, creating business reviews, catching up on industry news, or meeting with a client (virtual or in-person). Then, there are days when all heck breaks loose and I’m troubleshooting, working with my internal stakeholders on a resolution to a problem, and keeping our client informed.
What’s your life motto or slogan?
This, too, shall pass. Everything seems so hard when you are in it, but you get through it.
Why did you decide to start working in the travel industry?
My sister was working for a bank in our hometown and they had a travel department. She said they looked like they were having fun. So, a few months later I enrolled at one of the community colleges that offered a travel and transportation program. The rest is history.
What is the most valuable thing you have learned from working with business Travelers?
I have learned that when it comes to travel, business Travelers care mostly about two things: seats and loyalty programs—also, a seamless travel experience.
What advice would you give an employee who is just starting to travel for work?
My advice is to familiarize yourself with the company’s travel policies and duty of care services.
Is there anything you do in your personal life that has benefited you in your work life?
When I take time for myself to relax and re-energize, I have more in the tank when I return to work.
What do you enjoy most about working with people who travel for work?
I enjoy hearing about the places they have visited and the stories they have from their travels.
Do you speak Japanese?
I do not speak Japanese.
Have you ever been to Japan?
I have not, but maybe I’ll have the opportunity through my company someday.
What is your favorite travel destination?
That’s a hard one. Maybe Italy, or maybe I haven’t been there yet.
