Georgiou, PA to the operations director at fashion house French Connection, talks to Bob Papworth
Helen Georgiou looks after 10 frequent travellers, primarily travelling to and from Berlin, Paris, Copenhagen, Florence and Dublin. As well as London – the home of FCUK – the company has offices in Hong Kong, Turkey, US and Canada.
Has travel always been part of your remit?
I have always booked travel from the beginning of my working life at FCUK, initially only for our directors but then for other senior members of staff. My background does not include any travel experience, and my only initial issues were the time differences around the world when working out trips and travel dates.
Do FCUK’s employees appreciate the benefits of a travel management programme, or do they see it as restrictive? Is compliance an issue? How do you communicate policy to them?
I believe that FCUK employees appreciate the benefits of a travel management programme. They do see it as restrictive at times but I regularly email all travellers or speak to them to communicate the FCUK policy. Compliance is often an issue but I try to speak to new travellers early on to avoid any problems.
Cost control and savings are crucial of course, but how important is traveller comfort and well-being?
Traveller comfort is important, but I rely very much on my TMC, Corporate Traveller, to ensure they book with airlines and hotels that they know to be reputable, in order for our staff to be happy.
My relationship with Corporate Traveller is crucial. I'm accountable for all bookings made by myself and my colleagues, and I can be fully confident that my TMC is always working with FCUK's company policy. My job's made easier knowing I can trust my account booker.
What’s more important when it comes to travel booking: the personal touch or automation?
The personal touch is important, but I do see that super-efficient automation is inevitable.
Are you concerned about sustainability in your travel programme?
Green issues are very important to me and I think the travel industry – and every industry – should be made accountable for their impact on the environment.
What do you like most (and the least) about your job, and what’s been your biggest challenge?
I love the daily variety of my job and never knowing what the day will hold. There’s nothing I dislike about my job. I have grown as the company has grown and taken all the challenges on board. My biggest challenge/opportunity was moving my office from Great Portland Street to Camden eight years ago – while three months pregnant.
What do you see as your next big challenge or opportunity?
To keep adapting to the ever-changing fashion world and to try to stay one step ahead of what my directors may need.
Professionally, where do you see yourself in five years’ time? What are your professional targets and ambitions?
In five years’ time, I would love to still be here. Every year I take on more responsibilities and would be happy to continue taking these on and to continue growing with the company.
The working week has come to an end – how do you relax?
I relax in my garden as I am a very keen gardener. I love long country walks and eating out with my family and friends.