With 15 years at WTM London, Nicole Smart has witnessed the travel industry transform and evolve from several vantage points, from marketing and PR to conferences and project management. Today, she brings those experiences together to lead through collaboration, adaptability and a clear understanding that successful events are built by people working together.
What has 15 years at WTM London taught you about leadership?
After 15 years, you learn that change is inevitable. The travel industry is constantly evolving, so being able to adapt, stay calm and keep people focused when plans change at short notice is essential. Relationships matter too. WTM is ultimately about connecting people, and this is reflected in the role. It is less about directing from the front and more about bringing people together.
As a senior woman in the travel industry, what has shaped your leadership style?
My experiences with different leaders and working across different areas of the show — marketing, PR, conference and now project management — have shaped my approach. Each role has given me a different lens on how the event comes together. I have learned as I have gone, from both the good and the bad, and those experiences have influenced how I lead today.
How has WTM London evolved during your 15 years with the show?
WTM has always been about bringing the global travel industry together, and that has not changed. But the way we do that has evolved enormously. Like the travel industry itself, the event has had to reflect the changes happening around it. Technology, sustainability, changing consumer expectations and the speed at which the industry moves have all shaped WTM. Today, it is not just about doing business; it is also about the conversations that help shape the future of To read the full article, please log on to the link below:
https://www.magzter.com/IN/SANBROS-MEDIA/Urban-Melange/Fashion/All-Issues