Inside Story - Tour Operator



Nick

Age Range
46-55

Countries of Work
UK

Study and Career History
Established Steppes East in 1989 specifically to target the emerging market in Russia since the downfall of communism. Since then We have expanded to become one of the leading tour operators in the UK specialising in tailor made travel. We now also sell Africa and South America. The office has a staff of 18 people all of whom are well travelled (one of our main requirements). Personally I have travelled a huge amount and continue to do so. Travel itself, however is not enough, and I require people to have an interest in the country and read about it so we can construct itineraries tailored specifically to people's requirements.

How long have you been doing the job?
14 years.

Did you decide on your career path or did it all happen by accident?
In 1973 I drove from London to Singapore which kindled by travel bug, but instead of entering the profession I started farming. In 1989 a friend asked me to go to Russia to look at a tourism opportunity and the rest is history.

How did you get your "Glamour Job" ?
Fell into it and turned a hobby into a job.

What does the job involve?
Day to day running of the company Marketing Staff recruitment and interviews Travelling Suggesting new ideas for itineraries Checking hotels.

Describe a typical day at work.
Unbelievably varied. Anything from writing a brochure to creating an advert. Talking to clients about a possible trip to filling in a form on the internet.

What do you like most about the job?
The travel and variety.

What don’t you like about your job – if anything?
Getting up in the morning.

During your teenage years did you have much vocational guidance from school, university, family or friends? What was your biggest influence?
National Geographic, travel writing.

If you took end of school examinations did you get exam results you were happy with from your education?
Happy

Do you think that what you studied in school or in your further education was right for the career you are in now? Any regrets?
None, but it was easier then.

Have you taken further studies since leaving secondary or tertiary school. If yes, what did you study and why did you decide you needed more qualifications?
No.

What was your first job?
Officer in the Army.

What has been your most bizarre or challenging job to date?
Opening an office in Moscow.

What is your ultimate goal.... is this it, or do you have a pinnacle you have yet to reach?
Work - to reach a turnover of £10m Travel - To visit Antarctica and to travel the length of the Silk Road.

What are your top tips for personal success?
Sense of humour, an ability to write English, an interest in the places visited and an ability to convey enthusiasm without appearing to sell.

Any comments?


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Find out more about Nick, visit the website http://www.steppeseast.co.uk