Spotlight on Talent – Molly Poxon

Studied: Level 2 Cabin Crew, Level 2 Aviation and Level 3 Travel & Tourism
Progression: Travel Consultant at Co-Op Travel Walsall

While Molly Paxon always knew she wanted to work in travel, it was coming to Walsall College that helped turn her dream into reality.

“I’ve always loved travelling to different parts of the world,” said Molly.

“As a Walsall College student, it was brilliant to explore things related to the industry that I was passionate about such as ….. And to learn about all these things in a practical way such as through role plays, presentations and project plans.

“Activities like these are great for team building and boosting confidence. It’s also great preparation for when you’re in work for real. Techniques I learnt through role plays about resolving complaints put me at ease ahead of handling this type of situation.”

Molly also enjoyed college because of the many opportunities she had to meet and learn from people working in the industry. This was through classroom talks, mock interviews and by going to recruitment events.

Her lecturers’ industry connections even saw Molly being recommended for her role as travel consultant with Co-Op Travel, which she took up immediately after finishing her travel and tourism qualification.

As part of a team based at Walsall’s Crown Wharf Retail Park, her duties include booking holidays on behalf of clients (package, tailor-made, adventure holidays, cruises and more), providing holiday admin support such as hotel liaison and flight special assistance followed by ancillary services including travel insurance and airport parking.

Molly also supports her branch team with their office admin duties and updates their weekly window details. In addition to this, she enjoys creating content for Co-Op Travel Walsall’s Facebook Page.

“Overall, the job is a busy one with lots of variety,” continued Molly. “It’s never boring.

“Although some parts of the year are quieter than others, there are new deals coming through all the time that needed promoting.

You’re always doing all you can to make sure your customer’s getting everything they’re looking for and at the best possible price, whether that’s through us or a third party.”

Molly continued: “You know you’ve done well when the customer is happy with the service you’ve provided, has made some great holiday memories and then comes back to you ready to plan their next one.

“This is what makes my job so great. It’s everything I wanted it to be.”