From head office to heading up her own business – Lisa's transition to Travel Counsellor

Here at Travel Counsellors, over the years we’ve had a number of people move from roles at our head office and become Travel Counsellors themselves.

Lisa Bradshaw is the latest member of our community to do just that. She’s recently completed her induction and launched her corporate franchise, leveraging her years of experience in the industry to build something for herself – with the backing of the brand she knows, loves, and trusts.

“I have 27 years of experience in corporate travel, working with various Travel Management Companies (TMCs) across a wide range of accounts and industry sectors”. Lisa said. “10 years ago, I transitioned into training, where I developed a comprehensive training plan and mentoring programme for newcomers to the corporate travel sector.

“I joined Travel Counsellors as a Corporate Trainer and later progressed to the role of Business Development Coach in 2022. During this time, I also completed my ILM Diploma in Coaching and Mentoring. Over the past six years, I’ve been dedicated to supporting and coaching Travel Counsellors, helping them grow their businesses and achieve long-term success.”

Taking the leap

Through working so closely with our independent business owners, and knowing our award-winning franchise model inside out, Lisa was inspired to transition from her role at our Support Hub to become a Travel Counsellor herself.

Speaking of her decision to take the leap, Lisa said: “This felt like a natural next step in my journey. With the knowledge and experience I’ve gained in the industry, it made perfect sense to channel that into building my own business, and Travel Counsellors provides the ideal platform to make that happen.

“It took me two years to finally make the leap, but only because I had personal commitments I needed to prioritise first. I also wanted to make sure I had some financial stability in place to support me through the initial few months.”

Support that goes the extra mile

Although Lisa describes the transition as “quite strange” at first, she describes the support she’s received so far as “incredible”. Lisa added: With guidance from my mentor and encouragement from the wider community, I’m now finding my feet and settling in with confidence.

“Without a doubt, the most valuable aspect is the strength of the community, both at Head Office and within the wider Travel Counsellors network. That combination of support is truly unique and something you rarely find elsewhere. In my very first week, I was offered the opportunity to handle a corporate booking for a leisure Travel Counsellor’s client. With guidance from my mentor and assistance from Head Office, who quickly set up the team, I successfully completed the booking - something I couldn’t have done without the support around me.

Beyond practical help, the moral support has been just as valuable. I’ve built genuine friendships within the community, and that sense of connection makes a huge difference when you're running a business on your own.”

Leveraging TC Teams

Lisa also credits our innovative ‘TC Teams’ model as a huge draw – both for corporate travel professionals who want to hit the ground running with their franchise, and their clients. Lisa said:” Collaborating in teams with other Travel Counsellors is a fantastic way to earn while learning the ropes by supporting established Travel Counsellors who are busy. It’s a win-win. Plus, it benefits clients as well, as they become familiar with other Travel Counsellors, which ensures a smooth handover and continued service if their main Travel Counsellor is ever away.”

Looking ahead to a world of flexibility

Talking about her motivations for setting up her business, it was the flexibility that being her own boss offered that really appealed to Lisa.

“One of the biggest benefits for me is the flexibility to spend quality time with my daughter. I’m a single parent and adopted her when she was six months old - and she’s now eight. Balancing motherhood with running a business can be challenging at times, but this setup allows me to work hard while still being present for her. For me, it’s all about that balance between personal and professional life.”

So, what would Lisa’s advice be to corporate travel professionals who have the drive to set up their own business? “Absolutely go for it”, Lisa said. “There’s a common perception that you’ll be working alone, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. The level of support within the Travel Counsellors community is outstanding. You never feel like you’re on your own. You’re assigned a mentor for your first six months, and those relationships often grow into genuine friendships. Plus, there's a dedicated Business Development team to support you in winning new business and growing your client base.”

Are you currently selling corporate travel but want the freedom to offer a truly personalised service to your clients – all while growing a business that’s your own, with no limit on what you can earn? Travel Counsellors can offer you a supportive environment to thrive as an independent business owner. Keen to learn more? Book onto one of our relaxed Discovery events and take the next step towards a more fulfilling career.