Gateway Magazine - Issue 6 by Flight Centre

GATEWAY The magazine of Corporate Traveller Issue 6 â&#x20AC;¢ Summer 2019

A BALANCING ACT Corporate travel and carbon neutrality

Christmas party plan

5 slick travel

Destination Zone:

CHECKLIST

HACKS

JOHANNESBURG

THE BEST PLACE TO STAY 1,100+ Radisson Hotels to choose from in top destinations around the world

radissonhotels.com

W ELCO M E & CO N T EN T S It comes to something when the boss of a major airline tells passengers to think before they fly.

I N T HI S I S S UE 4-5:

News: What’s happening in the world of business travel

In case you missed it, KLM chief exec Pieter Elbers said people should consider whether face-to-face meetings are necessary and, if so, whether it would be more responsible to take the train.

Corporate Traveller news

8-9:

Hot Topic: Responsible business travel

Our Hot Topic discusses this tricky issue for corporate travellers who care about their carbon footprint but also need to regularly fly on business.

10-11: Get Ahead: Planning the perfect Christmas party

It’s the height of summer, so you’re probably not thinking about Christmas just yet - but it’s time to start planning. CT’s sister company cievents has shared some tips on planning a festive bash and we’ve got a round-up of new and unusual venues. Meanwhile, our featured Destination Zone in this issue is Johannesburg. The city is a special place for Corporate Traveller as it’s home to its ‘Adopt a School’ project. Find out the latest developments at Qhoboheane Primary School in Soweto on page 21.

Lisa James

Editor editorgatewaymagazine@corptraveller.co.uk

12-13: Wow factor venues that are perfect for festive celebrations 14:

Interview with a Travel Manager: Steve Jacques of Key Assets

16-17: Destination Zone: Johannesburg 19:

Travel Hacks: Products and tips for life on the road

21:

Charity Update: CT’s good causes

22-23: Village Voices: Around CT’s UK regional offices

CONTACT D E TA I LS Editor:

Lisa James

Corporate Traveller, 11th Floor, CI Tower, High Street, New Malden, KT3 4TE corptraveller.co.uk

Email us at:

gatewaymagazine@corptraveller.co.uk

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N E W S & D E V E LO P M E N T S H IG H -TECH ES CAL ATOR COULD C UT AI RPORT DEL AYS Che ck i n , s e cur ity a n d im m igr a t io n coul d all b e cle a r e d in o n e m in ute

otel group IHG is encouraging guests to put down their phone and indulge in a book instead, with the introduction of a free library service at selected UK properties. The library service is available at four hotels: Holiday Inn Express in Edinburgh; Voco St David’s, Cardiff; Staybridge Suites, London Vauxhall and Hotel Indigo in Stratford upon Avon. Located in the lobby of each hotel, the library will feature a selection of books written by local authors, poets and playwrights. In addition to the books, details about the local authors will be on display to provide guests with more information.

HE AT HROW I NV E S T S I N NE W S E CURI T Y E QUI P M E NT

irline passengers of the future may be able to check in, clear security and immigration, as well as get weighed in one minute, while going up a high-tech escalator. Designers have come up with a concept called Aerochk, which they say will cut long delays and lead to fewer people missing flights. They believe that the concept would slash long delays at airport security, and therefore drastically cut the number of passengers who miss flights. Instead of waiting in separate lines, passengers would place their passport on the left side of the escalator, and their luggage on the right, allowing passport, traveller and luggage to be checked simultaneously, using facial recognition and other technology. The machine would register passengers for the flight and perform necessary background checks and luggage scan. Passengers’ height and weight would be recorded to optimise weight and balance of the aircraft and each case would be photographed, weighed and associated with its owner automatically. Any problems detected would be reported and the bag or traveller would be routed to a different exit to be inspected by an airport agent. At the top of the escalator once passengers have cleared security, they can collect their passport, as well as their hand luggage. Large luggage would be routed to the cargo hold. The design is still in concept stage, and the idea has not yet been sold to any airport, but its designers believe it could be easily installed in airports, ports and bus and railway stations around the world.

HOT E L LAUNCHE S LI BRA RY S E RV I CE

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Li qu i ds and l apt ops c an be l ef t i n bag s

assengers travelling through Heathrow airport will be able to keep their liquids and laptops inside their bags once new security equipment is installed. The airport is investing £50m in computer tomography (CT) security scanners, to be rolled out over the next three years, which will be capable of providing a clear picture of a bag’s contents. The technology is already being used in the US, at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson airport and Chicago’s O’Hare. The US Transportation Security Administration hopes to deploy 300 of the scanners by 2020, the same date Heathrow plans to complete rollout of the machines. Passengers have been banned from carrying containers holding more than 100ml of liquid in their hand luggage since August 2006 and, at the moment, smaller bottles of gels and liquid must be placed in clear plastic bags at security. The 100ml restriction will remain after the introduction of the new scanners, but passengers will be able to leave their liquids in their bags, cutting down on plastic usage and saving time. Heathrow chief operations officer Chris Garton said: “This cutting-edge kit will not only keep the airport safe with the latest technology, but will mean that our future passengers can keep their focus on getting on with their journeys and less time preparing for security screening.” Aviation minster Baroness Vere added: “Passenger safety remains our top priority, and this programme clearly shows the huge importance we place on security.”

B A AND VI RGI N S HOWCA S E NEW A350 S UI T ES

NE W S I N BRI E F Rewards members get more Heathrow Rewards members can now collect loyalty points when they purchase entry to Club Aspire lounges in Heathrow Terminals 3 and 5. Double points are on offer for a limited period, until the end of July. Points can be exchanged for vouchers that can be used at outlets throughout the airport, and can also be put towards parking and travel on the Heathrow Express.

ritish Airways and Virgin Atlantic have revealed their new premier suites designed for the Airbus A350-1000 aircraft. BA’s new business class seat, called Club Suite, will arrive on the first of its A350 aircraft this month, while Virgin Atlantic’s A350-1000 has entirely redesigned its Upper Class cabin, in collaboration with its most frequent flyers. The BA Club Suite will have direct-aisle access, a suite door for greater privacy, luxurious flat-bed seats in a 1-2-1 configuration, 40% more storage, a vanity unit and mirror and18.5in in-flight entertainment screens. BA’s A350 aircraft will start short-haul flights between London and Madrid, then go long-haul on October 1 when another three A350 aircraft will join the fleet and two Boeing 777 aircraft will also be retrofitted with the new cabin. Club Suite will be rolled out across the network in 2020. Virgin Atlantic’s A350-1000 launches this summer, with a new suite and social area, called The Loft. The Loft extends the airline’s world renowned Clubhouse experience to the skies, offering a wide range of cocktails and the option for customers to dine together in the largest social space in the fleet. The Upper Class cabin has been designed in collaboration with a number of the airline’s most frequent flyers. Every seat now faces towards the window, with privacy screens and the ability to transition seamlessly from an upright seat straight to a bed. Laid out in a 1-2-1 configuration, every suite has a 44in pitch, with a fully flat bed length of up to 82 inches. Premium and Economy cabins have also been enhanced to include a 7in recline, increased space for storage, four way adjustable headrest and a luxurious leather seat in Premium and adjustable headrests and seat pitches of between 31 and 34 inches in Economy. Virgin’s first A350 flight will operate on the Heathrow-New York JFK route later this summer, and the first aircraft will be named Red Velvet. The A350 aircraft itself will also promote a feeling of wellbeing, space and calm with reduced noise levels, high ceilings and ambient lighting intended to compliment the time of day and outside light. Customers will leave their flight feeling rested thanks to higher levels of humidity and refreshed air as the cabin pressure is equivalent to an altitude of just 6,000 feet.

Airline adds mood boosting lighting Aer Lingus is lighting up the skies by introducing customised mood lighting system to its fleet of aircraft, which it says could make jetlag a thing of the past. Innovative new LED cabin lighting is designed to set the ideal ambience for long- and short-haul travellers by helping them adjust their body clocks to wherever they are flying. Qatar expands Manchester service Qatar Airways has increased frequency from Manchester Airport to three flights per day, giving business passengers a greater choice of a wide range of flights, including Bangkok, Perth, and Kuala Lumpur. Flights leave Manchester at 8.10am, 3.10pm and 9.15pm. Return flights arrive into Manchester at 7am, 1.35pm, and 8.05pm. More Eurostar trains to Amsterdam Eurostar has launched a third direct daily service from St Pancras International to the Netherlands. The service takes just over three hours to Rotterdam and almost four hours to Amsterdam and emits 80% less carbon per passenger than the equivalent flight. Eurostar chief executive Mike Cooper said: “With environmentally responsible travel rising up the consumer agenda, we’re boosting capacity and offering more flexibility with a third daily service.” Virgin Trains reveals future plans Virgin Trains has lodged an application to launch an hourly service between Liverpool and London to compete with the new franchise owner from 2021. In addition, Virgin is working on an app to offer an Oyster-style fares cap, working out cheapest fare combinations, which it says will save passengers £1bn a year.

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N E W S & D E V E LO P M E N T S CORPOR AT E T RAV E LLE R NE W S C T NOW ACCEPT S C RYPTO PAYMENT

CHA RI T Y UP DAT E

he Corporate Traveller team has raised a massive £48,856 for its chosen charity, Mind, over the past 12 months. CT staff undertook a whole host of fundraising events, ranging from cake bakes, quiz nights and marathons. Mind has been the partner charity of CT parent company Flight Centre Travel Group since summer 2017. The two-year partnership has now ended and, from July 1, CT has a new chosen charity. Find out who it is on page 20.

CT ’ S A ‘ GRE AT P LACE TO WORK’

orporate Traveller has signed a partnership deal with Bitpay, the largest global blockchain payment provider. The agreement means CT can now accept bitcoin and bitcoin cash payments from customers for business travel bookings. CT UK general manager Andy Hegley said: “We are excited to announce this partnership and spearhead cryptocurrency payments in the business travel sector, as bitcoin is currently not a mainstream method of payment among travel management companies. “We identified an increasing demand from our clients for the option to pay in bitcoin for business travel bookings made by our travel consultants. We chose BitPay to manage our merchant processing because they make it easy and handle the entire process of getting the bitcoin or bitcoin cash from the customer and depositing cash into our account. “The blockchain industry is growing exponentially and we are excited to be able to offer this our clients the ability to pay in bitcoin, whilst having the reassurance of our settlement from Bitpay being in pounds sterling.” Using BitPay, payments received via bitcoin or bitcoin cash will settle directly in Corporate Traveller’s bank account within two business days, denominated in GBP. There is no price volatility or risk and, unlike the high cost of credit cards, BitPay charges 1% to approve the bitcoin or bitcoin cash transaction and settlement. BitPay enables transactions from any computer or mobile device and invoices can be generated by an email invoice, or as an online e-commerce transaction, making it convenient and reliable for corporate customers. In 2018, BitPay processed more than $1bn annually from thousands of merchants and B2B customers globally. Bitpay chief commercial officer Sonny Singh said his company is seeing huge growth from airlines and travel agents who are tapping into the massive blockchain market.

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orporate Traveller has been recognised as a centre of Excellence in Wellbeing by the Great Place to Work Institute. What’s more, CT’s parent company, Flight Centre Travel Group, has been recognised as one of the UK’s Best Workplaces for the ninth year running. CT general manager Andy Hegley said: “We’ve always tried to foster an enjoyable and supportive environment within the company, so to be recognised for providing our employees with a ‘Great Place to Work’ accolade shows we are successfully catering for our staff’s needs. “As part of FCTG, employees know that they’ll get the chance to work in a fun environment which offers them the opportunity to build a strong career within a global company. “Internally, all of our colleagues have access to a wide range of initiatives to support their wellbeing.”

20 YE A RS OF CT

orporate Traveller celebrates its 20th birthday this summer. CT was launched in 1999 for companies with small and medium travel spend. Since then, it’s got bigger and better, but still maintains that personal and seamless touch. General manager Andy Hegley said: “We’re proud that, through our dedicated expert Travel Consultants, we truly get to know our clients’ businesses, offering experience powered by the right technology. “Here’s to the next 20 years!”

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H OT TO P I C : F LY I N G G R E E N For those who travel frequently as part of their job, the challenge between balancing business requirements and protecting the planet has never been greater When campaign group Extinction Rebellion called off threats to But what should we be doing? Tips on how to lessen one’s shut down Heathrow for four weeks this summer, following police impact are often derided as being impractical, already being warnings of hefty prison sentences, there were huge sighs of relief done or in some cases, simply laughable. Pack fewer clothes in all around. But green issues are now on everyone’s radar and air your case – as heavier aircraft use more fuel; use a local airport; travel is right in the spotlight. take a refillable bottle and use the water stations at airports. It’s said that, if the global aviation industry were its own The list goes on. country, it would be the 7th largest emitter At the beginning of July, Pieter Elbers, of CO2 in the world. Mind you, meat and CEO of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, became dairy production is responsible for 14.5% the first boss of an airline to publicly question “If the global aviation of climate changing gases – more than all whether travellers need to fly to the extent industry were its own forms of transport. And the air industry is they currently do. KLM’s new Fly Responsibly country, it would be the making changes. New aircraft are lighter campaign encourages rival airlines and and more fuel efficient, resulting in fewer industry stakeholders to come together to 7th largest emitter of emissions. In addition, work is being carried share best practice. 2 CO in the world” out on alternative fuels and electric planes. During the launch, at Amsterdam Schiphol But experts say we all need to do more. airport, Elbers said travellers need to ask themselves some serious questions: “Do you always need to meet face to face? Could you take the train instead? Could you offset [carbon emissions]?” He added: “We are not saying don’t fly. We are saying fly responsibly. Do it, but do it considerately.” Of course, we’ve known for years we needed to do something and, for a while, the answer seemed straightforward: offset your carbon and save the world. Yet many early carbon offsetting companies were exposed for taking huge chunks of money in admin fees, leaving substantially less going to plant more trees. There were also stories of local people evicted from their land to make way for tree planting and non-native species being planted, upsetting nature’s delicate balance. Offsetting programmes have improved and many CT clients use them. But the general view now is that offsetting is not enough. To be blunt: once you’ve flown, the damage has been done and no scheme can undo that.

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The Green Party wants to introduce a frequent flyer levy to limit the environmental impact of air travel. Based on the statistics that show 15% of people take 70% of flights in the UK, and over half don’t each year, the Green’s proposal would allow people one tax-free return flight every 12 months, and charge frequent flyers the most. Only half of the UK think they need to fly less, yet in a report earlier this year, the Committee on Climate Change (CCC) – the independent body that advises the Government – warned flying must not increase significantly above today’s levels if a zero carbon target is to be hit. The UK has made much about ‘leading the world’ in its pledge to cut emissions to almost zero by 2050, but Chris Stark, chief executive of the CCC has warned it could fail to hit the target. He told Sky News: “I am concerned. The present set of policies we have in the UK, the present reaction from government, isn’t enough. We absolutely recommend a tougher target because the science demands it.” Plans, such as the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA), which comes into effect in 2021, also have their critics. CORSIA aims to keep emission levels static from 2020, rather than looking at dropping levels by 2030. Domestic flights aren’t included in the plan, despite being responsible for around 40% of carbon emissions. And, although 78 countries responsible for 76% of global aviation activity have signed up to the voluntary scheme, some big countries, such as Brazil, China, India and Russia, haven’t. Travel company and campaign group Responsible Travel has called for a Green Flying Duty and wants money generated from the existing Air Passenger Duty to go towards research and development in electric aviation.

It adds that, while we should applaud airlines that look for alternatives to fossil fuel, biofuels are also controversial, as they come from sources that often compete with food crops, and cause deforestation. Responsible Travel CEO Justin Francis says there is a promising future for electric aviation, however, widespread electric flights won’t be commercially viable for decades. Heathrow Airport announced in 2018 it would waive a year’s landing fees for the first regular electric-hybrid aircraft to go into service. There are more than 170 companies working on electric aircraft and hybrid projects around the world, and experts say an electric aircraft could touch down at major international airports by 2030. Airbus and SAS Scandinavian Airlines are collaborating on research into hybrid and electric aircraft eco-systems and the infrastructure to support them. EasyJet hopes to fly electric aeroplanes on some routes by 2027, while the Norwegian government says it wants to make all short-haul flights electric by 2040. “In the meantime, the only option is to significantly reduce the demand for flights globally while simultaneously investing heavily in decarbonising aviation,” Francis concludes.

For more details on eco-friendly travel, including incorporating a greener travel policy, speak to one of the Corporate Traveller team.

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GET A HE A D: CH R I STM A S B U S I N E S S K N O W- H O W, T I P S A N D M OT I VAT I O N TO H E L P YO U A C H I E V E YO U R G O A L S

PLANNING THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS PARTY We’re in the height of summer, which means the festive season isn’t actually that far away. Time to start Christmas party planning. Laura Tyrrell, event director at cievents, a speciality meetings and events division of Flight Centre Travel Group, shares her top 10 tips on organising a fabulous seasonal extravaganza

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Location Check whether the venue has good public transport links or isn’t too expensive to get to and from in a cab. Or, choose somewhere with bedrooms where guests can stay over if they wish. Some people might want to go on somewhere else afterwards, to a nearby bar or club, for example. Guests It’s also good to really understand your audience and what they are looking to get from the event. Is there a particular type of venue, theme or entertainment act that would go down well (or badly)? It’s good to know what you’re looking for before you start your hunt.

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Food This is very audience dependent. While the general trend at the moment is very healthdriven, Christmas is the time of year that everyone tends to relax and treat themselves! It’s always nice to put a twist on traditional classics, such as turkey and mince pies. But be sure to cater for special diets.

Trends I think a lot of people want to move away from the traditional seated turkey dinner at Christmas parties these days, so we’re always trying to suggest venues that allow for something a little different. The choice depends on budget, audience and the vibe you want to achieve.

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Theme There’s generally no need to suggest a theme, as Christmas can be a theme in itself. People love to dress up and get glam at Christmas. Wow factor To make your Christmas party one to remember, make sure it has plenty of food, drink and a wow factor. Whether it’s a special performer or an extra special venue, these touches will stick in people’s minds.

“People are trying to move away from the traditional seated turkey dinner so we always suggest venues that allow for something a little different”

Invites Earlier is better when it comes to invites, but don’t make it too early in case people forget. Sending out a ‘save the date’ invite as soon as you lock in your date and venue is a good idea, followed by a formal invite. Then, send a reminder a couple of weeks before the event. When to book It’s never too late to book for Christmas 2019 and you can sometimes get a better deal by leaving it late. But, if you have a set date or particular venue in mind, get it sorted as soon as possible, as popular venues can book over a year in advance.

Photo: Dave Perry

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Get festive Be festive, but not over-the-top. For a party that will include children, Santa needs to make an appearance. But for most office parties, which would be attended by adults only, I think you can be a little more subtle with the theme. Think more ‘Winter Wonderland’ than Santa’s grotto. January party The festive season gets booked up very quickly and December is always a very busy time. You’ll find more flexibility on dates if you leave the party until the New Year. January Christmas parties are becoming a popular choice.

cievents organises over 1,000 events each year and its knowledgeable staff have the latest and greatest access to every element to create a wow-factor event – big or small. Find out more at: cievents-uk.co.uk

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CHRISTM AS

PA R T Y V E N U E S LOOKING FOR PARTY VENUES WITH A DIFFERENCE THIS FESTIVE SEASON? Check out these new or unusual venues, with prices to suit all budgets

D E C K-A D E N CE

ALPINE RETREAT

The outdoor wooden deck of the upmarket Montague on the Gardens hotel in Bloomsbury, London, will transform into a ski lodge for the festive season, adorned with pine trees, twinkling lights, snowmen, falling snow and a cosy log cabin. The Montague Ski Lodge offers Christmas party guests an après ski experience in the heart of the capital and can be hired for exclusive use, with a buffet, drinks and disco. As well as mulled wine and spiced cider, lodge visitors can enjoy homemade flavoured schnapps and vodkas, including candy cane, butterscotch and toffee. For those with a sweet tooth the decadent ‘hot choctails’ are a must.

Dormy House, the hotel set in the 400-acre Farncombe Estate near Broadway in the Cotswolds, is offering Christmas parties in its pop-up alpine dining cabin, Piste at the Potting Shed. Within its wooden walls, groups of up to 24 can gather for snug celebrations with a distinct après-ski atmosphere. A three-course alpine menu includes classic cheese fondue and tafelspitz of beef with minced apple and horseradish followed by sachertorte. On arrival, guests get a hot Cotswolds G&T.

Price: From £105 per person

Price: £39.50 per person

www.montaguehotel.com

www.dormyhouse.co.uk

N A P O L E O N I C FO RT

DOCKLANDS DELIGHT

No Man’s Fort, a Napoleonic Fort-turned-hotel off the coast of Portsmouth, has a new Festive Party Nights experience for 2019. Guests hop on a boat to transfer to the fort and are welcomed with a drinks reception before indulging in a three-course meal in the venue’s ‘Mess Hall’. Afterwards, guests can toast marshmallows around the fire and dance the night away before returning to the mainland. There’s also the opportunity to explore the Napoleonic landmark during a guided tour from the Fort Captain, who will share many hidden secrets.

Be among the first to celebrate Christmas at the new Lincoln Plaza, a Hilton curio collection hotel in Canary Wharf. The 129room hotel has a restaurant run by celeb chef Cyrus Todiwala and a speakeasy bar called Jackspeak. The year-round, heated outdoor terrace has stellar views of London. Parties can be held in various function areas, with packages ranging from canapés to three-course menus with a DJ and novelties such as Christmas crackers. Private and ‘semi-private’ party options are available.

Price: From £99 per person

Price: From £45 per person

www.solentforts.com/offers-and-experiences

www.lincolnplazalondon.co.uk

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Step back in time for a legendary Christmas party with live entertainment and a festive feast at the historic Warwick Castle. The Christmas Medieval Banquet includes a three-course dinner with music, a glass of mead on arrival and thrilling entertainment throughout the evening as knights do battle. The banquet takes places in the authentic surroundings of the vaulted Undercroft restaurant where guests can enjoy a drink with their meal, a bar is available throughout the evening and guests can party like royalty until midnight. Price: From £69 per person www.warwick-castle.com

H AWA I I A N PA RA D I S E

HIT THE BEACH Recently expanded luxury venue Carbis Bay Estate in St Ives has various function spaces for unusual Christmas parties, such as the stunning Beach Hut, which is situated directly on the estate’s private beach. There is a four-course festive menu, DJ and use of the beachside spa treatment room on offer along with discounted bed and breakfast for guests. Price: From £29.95 per person; accommodation from £60 www.carbisbayhotel.co.uk HOLLYWOOD Walk the red carpet, pose for the paparazzi and swan around like a movie star at Haydock Park Racecourse’s event, A Very Hollywood Christmas. Easily accessible from Liverpool and Manchester, the event includes a three-course dinner, themed drinks reception and disco. Price: From £39 per person. www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/ haydock

It may be cold outside, but The Mermaid London transforms into a Hawaiian paradise at Christmas. Guests at the venue’s Luau parties will be transported to a tropical escape where the weather is hot, the drinks are cool and the colours are bright. The former Mermaid Theatre in the City of London has themed rooms, crammed with everything from tiki huts to surf boards and various options to make the party the talk of the town. Options include a two-course lunch, three-course seated dinner or bowl food. Price: From £95 per person www.the-mermaid.co.uk/social-events/christmas-parties

CARIBBEAN TWIST The Fish, the 63-room part boutique hotel, part adventure hideout in the Cotswolds, will offer a special festive Feasting on the Deck barbecue experience. The fully covered deck will keep revellers warm and cosy as they tuck into a special three-course Bah Humbug menu with a Caribbean twist. Price: £45 per person.

TA K E OV E R A CA S TL E

www.thefishhotel.co.uk COUNTRY HOUSE

Just 12 miles from Edinburgh, the recently refurbished Borthwick Castle is an impressive setting to entertain colleagues, clients or suppliers, amid the dramatic Scottish landscape. The Great Hall is the heart of the castle, warmed by a log fire, adorned with historic artefacts and bedecked with festive décor and a 15ft Christmas tree to add even more seasonal magic. There are 12 luxurious bedchambers for up to 24 overnight guests, a dedicated castle team, housekeeping and personal chef who can create sumptuous dishes (at extra cost). Price: From £41 per person www.borthwickcastle.com

For an unforgettable corporate Christmas event, Huntsham Court, Devon, is an impressive exclusive-hire Victorian mansion in five acres of grounds. Many of the 40 individually designed bedroom suites have original fireplaces – on which to hang stockings – and the five grand reception rooms are decorated with trees, baubles and candles. Price: From £73.47 per person, per night, based on 92 guests staying for two nights, accommodation only. www.huntshamcourt.co.uk

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INTERVIEW WITH A

TR AVEL M ANAGER As a child, Steve Jacques wanted to work as cabin crew and fly the world. As regional CEO of a global company, he travels frequently – but someone else serves his refreshments on board Tell us about your company

What are the biggest challenges when

Key Assets – The Children’s Services Provider is an international social enterprise providing children and family social services in eight countries across Europe, North America and Asia Pacific. We also support programmes in India, Jordan and South East Asia through our partnership with the Martin James Foundation.

arranging travel?

How long have you worked there?

influencer in how our travel arrangements our organised.

I joined as a social worker and, over the last 19 years, have held a number of positions across the group. In 2014, I became the group chief operating officer and, in 2017, group CEO. Before joining, I worked as a social worker for Barnsley County Council.

What’s life like for you when you’re not working?

Describe your job in a nutshell

couple of years we have been exploring the

I have overall operational and strategic responsibility for the organisation and work with an exceptionally inspiring and experienced group of regional CEOs, directors and managers.

Greek islands. We recently travelled to

How is business travel managed at Key Assets?

so that’s also a favourite destination

In the early days, we would all be responsible for our own travel arrangements but in recent years we have become more sophisticated. We have worked with Corporate Traveller as our travel management company for a number of years. We’ve a number of people across the organisation who are designated ‘travel bookers’. I’m fortunate in that I have assistance when I need to arrange travel, but you’ll still find me sorting myself out now and again. Katie at Corporate Traveller is brilliant!

and I grew up there. When I

How many colleagues regularly travel on business? We employ over 1,200 staff across the eight countries we work in. Approximately 25 travel extensively on business and a number of others travel periodically. Where do you all travel to? I travel for business extensively visiting our worldwide offices, as does our executive chairman and chief financial officer. Our regional CEOs and directors are more likely to undertake domestic travel with some international travel for global summits and meetings. Our regular destinations are reflected by where we operate, but we have some remote locations, such as Halls Creek in the East Kimberley of Australia and Goose Bay in Labrador, Canada. We also deliver services on Norfolk Island in the South Pacific. Our routings are usually informed by getting value for money and, sometimes, speed. There aren’t many social enterprise organisations with operations that extend to different parts of the world. Do you have a comprehensive travel policy in place? Yes, we have a very comprehensive travel policy in place and it is effective. It sets out clear expectations regarding travel and helps us ensure that we are all working to company requirements.

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Our policy provides a clear framework, so everyone knows what to expect and how to arrange travel, whether flights, accommodation or car hire. Obviously, cost is a big factor and this is clearly a big

I love travelling, which is probably why this job suits me so well. I live with my husband, who loves travelling too. Over the last

Koufonissi and fell in love with the place. My mother is from Cyprus

was young I wanted to be a flight attendant and I used to play ‘cabin crew’ lining up our dining room chairs and feeding my passengers (my little brother and teddy bears) avgolemono (egg and lemon soup). In my job, I get to do this vicariously!

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JOHANNESBURG Johannesburg, also known as Joburg or Jozi, is a vibrant, rapidly changing city and important business hub with year-round good weather. Yet, despite the changes, there is still a great wealth divide and the city’s reputation for being ‘unsafe’ often puts people off. There are plenty of safe areas, including shopping malls and the business district, but visitors do need to have their wits about them. Michelle Jolley, corporate marketing leader at CT South Africa, knows the city well and shares her tips for business travellers planning a trip.

FY I Time difference: GMT+2 Getting around: The Gautrain easily takes visitors from the airport to Sandton or Rosebank. The Gautrain buses are also recommended and the city has a good Uber network, which provides a lot of flexibility. Tipping: 10% in restaurants for lunches and dinners. Taxis are not recommended, but visitors can tip their Uber driver via the app.

“When people arrive I would suggest they either take the Gautrain directly from the airport to Sandton, Rosebank or Pretoria (the three main business districts). The Gautrain is very safe and quite simple to navigate. Alternatively, they could get an Uber or organise a transfer in advance. The traditional taxis are not always safe so I would not recommend them. Some businesses still have head offices in the Johannesburg city centre but most have moved out to Sandton and surrounding areas, which are more modern and safe. Generally, the Johannesburg city centre should be avoided if possible. Just stay savvy and avoid unreputable areas. Get out and explore the city and what it has to offer, but make use of Uber or the Gautrain for transport and avoid informal settlements. It’s perfectly safe to go out to restaurants and bars, but not advisable to walk around in the dark. Keep your car doors locked when driving and be alert when driving at night.”

EATING AND DRINKING What to expect The city has a multitude of restaurants offering all kinds of food, from Asian and Thai to Indian, Portuguese and Italian. Dining at Moyo, on Melrose Arch, is an enjoyable African experience. Misty Hills Country Hotel does a weekend carvery that includes a range of traditional dishes and game meat such as warthog, crocodile and kudu. Quick snack or a low-key lunch Tasha’s is a trendy restaurant/coffee shop chain and located in many business districts. Eating alone For anyone travelling alone, it is a good idea to stay in an area such as the Monte Casino complex as it has a number of hotels, restaurants and bars. Visitors can then walk around and have plenty of variety. The complex also has a cinema, theatre and casino to keep guests entertained. Wow-factor business lunch or dinner The Parkhurst area has a number of trendy places to eat such as La Boqueria and Cafe Del Sol. Alternatively, Wombles in Bryanston is great for a ‘wow dinner’, or DW Eleven 13 in Dunkeld is quite an experience.

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Night on the town For something cheerful and vibey, try the Baron. For a more trendy night out, try the rooftop bars around Sandton. Or do what the locals do and try the new hot spots in Maboneng, such as Shakers or Love Revo. Gin bars are very popular in Johannesburg: try 011, an exclusive gin bar in Dainfern Square. Music and dancing Check out Sumo Night Club in Rosebank, or Rockets in Bryanston for live music.

S I G HTS E E I N G Soweto The world-famous tour takes in the district with the largest population of the city. The area includes the Apartheid Museum and Soccer City, the biggest stadium in Africa, which has been home to many World Cup games over the years as well. Lion Park The Lion Park is an eco-tourism destination, breeding ground and sanctuary that focuses on the wellbeing and regeneration of the endangered wild dog, the rare white lion and cheetah.

W H E R E T O S TAY ? Radisson Blu Gautrain, Sandton A Corporate Traveller preferred partner, this modern and stylish hotel is within walking distance of the Sandton business district, public transport and the famous Nelson Mandela Square. There’s a complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport, as well as the nearby Sandton City shopping mall and other points within a 5km radius. The nearest station is Sandton Gautrain for easy connection to Pretoria and the airport.

Crowne Plaza Johannesburg – The Rosebank This business hotel is in a commercial and business hub just north of the city centre, near the Rosebank Mall and Rosebank Gautrain station, with easy access to the banking district of Sandton. It’s 30 minutes by car or train from the airport. A free shuttle service runs to the nearby Sandton Convention Centre. SmartSTAY extras for CT customers: complimentary breakfast and wi-fi, plus 400 IGH rewards points per stay.

Holiday Inn Johannesburg Rosebank Nelson Mandela Bridge Connects the Central Business District to the Newtown Cultural Precinct, where the museums and art galleries are. Bus tour There is a city hop-on-off bus tour that stops at all the top attractions. Walking It’s not particularly advisable to walk around, unless within one of the parks, malls or complexes. Further afield Anyone with a few days to spare should head out to the Pilanesberg (about 2.5 hours’ drive) for some game viewing.

Among the business hotels in Johannesburg close to the city’s corporate area, Holiday Inn Johannesburg Rosebank is next to Rosebank Gautrain station, has direct access to The Zone shopping centre and operates a free corporate shuttle within a 5km radius. The upmarket suburb of Sandton is 4km from the hotel, while Johannesburg CBD is 10km away. SmartSTAY extras for CT customers: complimentary breakfast and wi-fi, plus 400 IGH rewards points per stay.

To find the best deals and see all available hotels visit www.corptraveller.co.uk/smartstay and check out our smartSTAY range.

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TRAVELLER HACKS Check out the latest apps, products and tips designed to make travelling on business easier

P R E M I U M R H A P SO DY Briggs & Riley, designer of the Sympatico Onyx range of luggage, which expands in height, then pushes back down to original size once full (featured in issue 2 of Gateway magazine), has just launched a brand aimed at women. Called Rhapsody, the collection includes a cross-body bag, tote and slim briefcase, as well as spinner-wheel cases in cabin and carry-on sizes. Bags have innovative design, organisational pockets and dedicated compartments for technology and personal items and come with a guarantee that if luggage is damaged, Briggs & Riley will repair it free of charge. Available in plum, navy and black. Price: from £129, from stores including Harrods and John Lewis

S I Z E M AT T E R S Save space with the Atom, a small, yet powerful charger that works with MacBooks, Apple phones and all USB-C devices with the use of a single cable. By swapping silicon for gallium nitride (GaN), designer Anker has created a high-efficiency tool that generates less heat, at 40% smaller than a standard MacBook charger. It’s the size of a golf ball and 2.5 times faster than a standard iPhone charger. Price: from £39.99, from Amazon

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LISTEN UP Looking for a present for a colleague? How about this limited edition Soundcore Life 2 gift set, also by Anker? It comprises overear headphones giving up to 30 hours’ listening time in wireless mode or 60 in wired, with various cables and an airplane adaptor all in a travel case. Hi-res audio provides precision and accuracy, ‘BassUp’ technology deepens and intensifies bass in real time, while outside noise is effectively reduced. Price: around £100, from stores including Amazon

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C H A R I T Y U P DAT E SOWETO SCHOOL UPDATE Ground has been broken on building a new kitchen at the Qhoboheane Primary School in Soweto, Johannesburg, which is parent company Flight Centre’s ‘Adopt a School’ initiative. But it hasn’t been an easy task. As soon as the team began to dig the foundations, flooding occurred due to unforeseen high water levels below the school. Engineers were consulted who advised the foundation trenches needed to be a further 300mm deep and filled with additional G5 base material. The good news is that this material has been sourced and work on the foundations is continuing. The much-needed new kitchen will replace the current facilities of a stove and sink in a shipping container, where staff currently prepare lunch for almost 500 pupils a day. For some children, this is their only meal of the day. Yet more good news is that the vegetable garden that will provide fresh produce for the kitchen is thriving. The next group of Corporate Traveller and Flight Centre staff volunteers heading to Soweto will continue planting and tending the garden.

CHEQUE THIS OUT NEW GOOD CAUSE Corporate Traveller and parent company Flight Centre Travel Group have a new preferred good cause: Age UK. The organisation is the country’s largest charity dedicated to helping the over-60s, the fastest-growing group in society. Age UK provides services at national and local level to inspire, enable and support older people and stands up for all those who have reached later life. All money raised over the next two years by staff will be matched by Flight Centre.

Corporate Traveller’s parent company Flight Centre Travel Group received a huge charity boost recently when Enterprise Rent-a-Car gave the Flight Centre Foundation £1,500 in support of Mind. Mind was the Flight Centre Foundation’s chosen charity for the past two years, with Corporate Traveller staff joining colleagues elsewhere in the group undertaking fundraising activities. Money raised goes to support the mental health charity’s national helpline and projects across the UK. The cheque was presented by Daniel Seymour of Enterprise to Flight Centre’s Peopleworks support consultant Emily West. As with all money raised, the amount has been matched by Flight Centre.

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VILL AGE VOICES

WINNING TEAM Corporate Travellerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Production Sport & Creative team has triumphed at the 2019 Business Travel People Awards, scooping the trophy for Best Reservations Team of the Year. Organised by The Business Travel Magazine, The People Awards recognise individuals and teams within travel management companies and travel suppliers whose professionalism and business excellence make them stand out from their industry peers. Pictured with the award are: Poppy Bell and John Archer.

W O R K HA RD, P LAY HA RD The Corporate Traveller team joined colleagues from other divisions at Flight Centre Travel Group at the annual summer conference and ball earlier this month at the ExCeL centre in London. Can you spot anyone you know in these pictures?

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Through Corporate Traveller’s regional UK hubs, clients have access to a team of local experts to ensure they get the most from their corporate spend. Each issue, we’ll bring readers a round-up of office news – and ask some of the team a travel-related question.

This issue, we ask:

As CT celebrates 20 years of looking after clients, when did you go above and beyond the call of duty? Mason Bradbury Senior manager, Newcastle “On the morning of 22 March 2016, before work had begun, I saw reports of a terror attack at Brussels Airport. Knowing a client was due to depart the airport, I contacted him to warn him. He said only two people had been in touch that morning: his wife and his travel agent. As part of CT’s personalised service, we go to great lengths to always ensure our travellers are safe.“

Edinburgh Glasgow

Newcastle

Leeds

Robbie Jagdeo, Senior manager, New Malden

Hull

“We had to emigrate two people from

Manchester Liverpool

Siobhan Mathais, Senior manager, Vauxhall “When one of my clients was stuck in New York and shaken after the September 11 terror attacks, CT booked her a hotel room out of the city for 10 nights until she was able to leave.“

Loughborough Birmingham

Oxford Bristol

London

Woking Gatwick

Australia over to the UK along with their beloved guinea pig. Every apartment that we had found for the initial threemonth stay would not accept pets, so we arranged various viewings of petfriendly properties before finally finding a suitable home for all three of them.“

Clerkenwell Chancery Lane Vauxhall Wimbledon New Malden Waterloo

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