ITM talks to Helen Hodgkinson, Senior Product Manager at Barclaycard Commercial Payments on what winning an ITM award has meant to them.

Opening & Background:

How long have you worked in the Travel Management industry? 

-I started working in the travel industry back in 2006, looking after our payment solutions and proposition for this sector.

How you won any other industry awards? If so, what/when? 

-Well, we have won awards as a business, including Best Corporate Payment Provider at the recent Business Travel AwardsJ, but I’ve never won a personal award such as this one!

 

Entering:

What motivated you to enter the ITM Awards? (Or if nominated by a colleague) Why do you think you were nominated? 

-It was the Chairman’s award that I won so I was nominated by the Board of Directors, which I initially didn’t know anything about!  For me, the Chairman’s award is a bit like the ‘players player’ award and I’ve since learned that I was nominated for my commitment to the association, my Board Directorship, the regional committees, participation at events and the charities we support.  A bit of an all-rounder I guess?!

 

Impact:

What did winning an award mean to you? 

-It has been, without doubt, the highlight of my career!  To be recognised by the ITM in our sector was a huge privilege and one that I’m extremely proud of.  It made me realise that the sum of the efforts that are made really are recognised by those around you. I never believed I’d be a contender for this award and it means so much to me personally and professionally to have received it.

How did it feel to return to the office with an ITM award and what was the response from your colleagues/line manager? 

-Our senior team couldn’t remember a time when a member of the team had been recognised externally with an award like this.  My team were delighted for me! I smile every time I think about it.

What impact, if any, has it had on your day to day professional life? 

-It has made me realise that people truly value the efforts other make.  It also reminds me how important our community and network is.

 

Awards 2019:

Would you recommend entering the ITM awards?  

-Yes, yes, yes!  Do it! 

Do you have any advice for anyone thinking of entering? 

-Be proud of your contribution and achievements and let our industry know.