FH STORIES | HOLIDAY EXTRAS

Enjoy less hassle and more holiday

Newingreen-based Holiday Extras does exactly what it says it does – the company takes care of all the extras relating to your holiday. Airport hotels, parking, lounges, transfers, car hire, holiday insurance and UK breaks – the aim is to provide “Less Hassle. More Holiday” with a tailor-made personal service. A bit like having your own travel concierge!

INSPIRING INNOVATION

We spoke to Nicola Boston, their Culture and Experience Lead, to find out what it’s like to work there.

“I’ve been here for eight years” she says, “and hand on heart I can say that we put every effort into ensuring that our people have an amazing experience. Because when we have a happy and engaged team, who are willing to go the extra mile for our customers, that’s how we drive customer satisfaction, ensuring that they keep coming back as well as helping spread the word about us.”

The working environment is beautiful, with the award-winning Wave and Reef buildings overlooking a landscaped garden with lakes to the front and the Kent countryside to the rear. “We think it’s important for people to be able to enjoy their place of work.” says Nicola, “and the environment inspires innovation, as well as enhancing wellbeing. It’s good for the body and the soul.”

Many of the team have built their careers at Holiday Extras and Nicola explains that’s because people are encouraged and supported to develop their skills and strengths within the company, using their own interests to take them forward. “We want people who are passionate, pioneering and creative – and we respect and value everyone’s opinions, and welcome their ideas because that’s how we innovate and continue to grow.”

Regular ‘Reconnect’ events bring the team together to mingle, have fun and share ideas. The events focus on learning, connecting with each other and above all else, having fun.

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE

For every employer, recruiting and retaining the right skills is crucial – and many believe that growing talent internally and locally is one of the best ways to do this.

“To this end, we operate an industry placement programme with Kent University students, a tech apprenticeship programme, and we work with both Brockhill Park Performing Arts College and East Kent College to support their careers curriculum.” Nicola explains.

“As a large local employer, being able to provide exciting roles for people, where they can reach their limitless potential is a key priority for us.”

CONSIDERING A MOVE?

Holiday Extras continues to grow year on year, and is actively recruiting across the company. We asked Nicola what type of people they are looking for.

“Ideally, you must love travel – but you don’t have to have worked in the industry before. You’ll need to be someone who loves to solve problems, cares about customers and their experiences, an innovative, ideas person, and a “do-er” who can make things happen. Above all, you’ll be passionate, and you’ll want to be part of a team of people who share that ethos – and enjoy the ride.”

The company has an exciting range of roles across a number of disciplines, including software engineering, product, delivery management, brand and customer service. Their inclusive recruitment processes have been designed to enable people to showcase their unique strengths, and can be tailored if people have specific needs.

For more information, visit www.holidayextras.com/careers.