Hays Travel recently celebrated its dedicated employees who have served for 20 to 30 years. The event, held at Ramside Hall Hotel in Durham, was graced by senior directors and aimed to honour the loyalty and hard work of long-serving staff.
The evening comprised awards, shared memories, and reflections, marking a significant milestone in the employees’ careers. Such events underscore the company’s commitment to appreciating and retaining valuable team members.
Celebrating Long-Servicing Employees
Hays Travel recently honoured employees who have dedicated between 20 to 30 years of service with the company. This celebration took place at the Ramside Hall Hotel, Durham, attended by senior directors Jonathon Woodall-Johnston and Jane Schumm, on February 13.
The long-service awards included an engraved piece of Sunderland Glass for those reaching the 20-year mark, and a Hays Travel gift voucher for all attendees celebrating between 20 and 30 years of service. Such recognition initiatives underline the company’s appreciation for employee loyalty and dedication.
A Journey Through the Years
Tracey Luke, head of Vista operations and flights at Hays Travel’s Head Office, marked her 30th year with the company during the event. Reflecting on her career, she shared, “I started working at Hays Travel in March 1993 when I was just 20 years old, working as a telesales consultant in Houghton-le-Spring.”
Tracey has held various managerial roles throughout her tenure. She added, “Travel can be a very fluid industry – if you stand still, you get left behind. What has kept me at Hays Travel is the support you receive to navigate this. It feels like a big family that wants you to be the best you possibly can be.”
Leadership’s Acknowledgement
Dame Irene Hays, in her address, celebrated the milestones reached by the staff. She highlighted the inclusive growth culture at Hays Travel, stating, “Hays Travel provides people from all backgrounds, skillset, and experience with the opportunity to learn, develop and progress in their work.”
She emphasised the value of retention, saying, “We are grateful that so many wish to stay with us and have long and successful careers. We attribute that to their talent and our development culture.” This underscores Hays Travel’s commitment to cultivating a supportive environment.
Employee Loyalty and Opportunities
The event saw many heartfelt moments, with employees reminiscing about their journeys within the company. The sense of camaraderie and mutual respect was evident, reinforcing the company’s strong support system.
Employees shared stories of career progression, technological advancements, and personal growth, all of which have been integral to their long tenure at Hays Travel.
Fostering a Family-like Culture
The celebration was not just an acknowledgment of years of service but also a reflection of the bond Hays Travel fosters among its employees. This familial atmosphere has been a cornerstone of the company’s success.
According to Tracey Luke, “I am so lucky to have worked for [founder] John and [chair] Irene and to have experienced many roles where I have seen changes in colleagues, customers, technology, and opportunities throughout the years.” Such testimonials highlight the deep-rooted loyalty and satisfaction among the staff.
The Road Ahead for Hays Travel
Hays Travel continues to invest in its workforce, ensuring that employees are equipped to meet future challenges. This long-service dinner not only celebrated past achievements but also looked ahead to the future with optimism.
As Hays Travel expands and evolves, the commitment to its employees remains unwavering. The company is poised for continued growth, driven by a dedicated and experienced team.
The long-service dinner was a testament to Hays Travel’s dedication to its employees. By recognising and celebrating the milestones of its staff, the company continues to foster a supportive and loyal work environment.
As Hays Travel looks to the future, it remains committed to investing in its employees, ensuring that they have the necessary support and opportunities to thrive. This approach not only benefits the workforce but also contributes to the company’s sustained success.
