Meet the Rep: Air New Zealand's Paul Scott

Describe your typical week

I start the week in the office to catch up with emails, admin and our sales support team. Tuesday through Friday I get out and see agents, which could be anywhere from down the road in Hammersmith to Cornwall or Glasgow. I travel by train most of the time. A five-hour road trip to Newcastle at 5am can take its toll, so I try and take the train to get a bit of work done and relax. There’s always an event or two going on that you’ll probably find me at as well.

How big is Air New Zealand’s on-the-road sales team?

There are five of us that cover the UK – three focusing on the leisure side and two working with our corporate agents.

What must-have items always travel with you?

One thing I always have with me is my running gear. Whenever I’m staying over somewhere, I like to go for a run and explore the area. It helps me to wind down after a long day.

What’s on the iPod?

If I’m working on the train, something upbeat to keep me awake and focused – otherwise I’ll be listening to some chilled music to help me drift off.

Which fast-food outlet keeps you going on the road?

I try and eat healthy, but on the road that’s never easy. Every so often I’ll treat myself to a cheeky Nando’s at the end of a trip.

What’s the silliest thing you’ve ever done as part of a sales visit?

It has to be our LA sales blitz this year. It shows how we like to stand out and do things a little differently. I’m certainly no Adele, but I love the fact that we’re doing a Carpool Karaoke with agents. Move over James Corden!

What gives you “train rage”?

Probably train delays, especially if I’m on my way to a meeting and I end up arriving late. I don’t mind so much if I’m heading home. But you make it what it is. You end up meeting some really interesting people when you’re at a standstill on the train. Who knew you could be a

dog-surfing instructor!

What’s your favourite hobby?

Last year, I started platform diving (the type Tom Daley does). I’m definitely not Olympic standard, but it’s a lot of fun and really helps push me out of my comfort zone. Some of the young kids you see diving are incredibly fearless.

Which agency gives you the warmest welcome?

I’m lucky to get a warm welcome wherever I go because of the brand. I have to say, though, I love heading up north. Such a friendly bunch.

What key messages do you try to convey in an agent visit?

It really depends what is going on at that particular time. The fact that Air New Zealand flies daily to Los Angeles is something we always try and get across. A lot of people don’t realise we fly the route because of our name. We also have loads of unique features onboard and different fares, so I’m all about trying to personalise the message to the agent, depending on what they focus on.

What’s your advice for agents who don’t currently sell your product but are keen?

Ask colleagues who have flown with us for their feedback. With one flight a day from Heathrow, experiencing us first-hand isn’t easy but we are working hard behind the scenes to change this – from airport fam visits to our “Seats On Tour” events. Your first port of call should definitely be our trade website, though – at airnewzealandtrade.com.

If you didn’t work in travel, what would you like to do instead?

I love working in travel and I don’t think I could work in any other industry. I’ve always wanted to run a small, boutique hotel somewhere exotic.