8 March 2025: CT Partners, Australia’s leading independent travel buying network,
proudly celebrates the exceptional contribution of women across the travel industry this
International Women’s Day.
With over 70% of the Australian travel workforce comprising women, the industry has long
been a leader in gender inclusion, from frontline consultants to senior executives.
Within the CT Partners network, 18 of its 32 member businesses are led by women in CEO,
Managing Director, or General Manager roles, with an addi onal 10 women holding senior
management posi ons. Two female leaders also serve on the CT Partners Board, helping to
shape the strategic direction on of Australia’s third-largest travel buying group.
Quotes attributable to Fiona Prosser, CEO, Globetrotter Corporate Travel (a CT Partners
member):
“International Women’s Day is an opportunity to recognise how far we’ve come in gender
equality while acknowledging the work s ll to be done. The travel sector is unique in that
women can build careers from entry-level roles through to senior leadership, often without
needing traditional corporate pathways.”
“At Globetrotter, we embrace a people-first approach that supports career development at
all levels. Many of our female leaders have progressed through the industry by seizing
opportunities, mentoring others, and driving innovation.”
Quotes attributable to Rachelle Matheson, Managing Director, Jigsaw Travel (a CT Partners
Member):
“When women are empowered to lead, everyone benefits. Countless studies have shown
that women tend to exhibit higher empathy and emotional intelligence than men, enabling
us to build strong and fair relationships with our teams and clients. We also tend to be each
other’s greatest cheerleaders, making team members feel more supported and empowered,
strengthening team morale and enhancing collaboration.”
“I would love to see more women holding top management and executive roles in our
industry, as well as being more represented on company and industry boards. To achieve
this, we need to drive change at all levels, foster workplaces that promote work-life balance,
and challenge outdated notions that long hours in the office define commitment and
success.”
Quotes attributable to Kristin Panchetti, General Manager, Complete Business Travel (a CT
Partners Member):
“Women bring a unique combination of empathy, collaborative leadership, and exceptional
multitasking abilities to the travel industry. Their ability to understand and anticipate the
needs of clients, combined with a collaborative leadership style, fosters strong teamwork
and long-term business success.”
“One of the biggest challenges we need to address is shifting the perception on that women
must juggle home and work responsibilities within traditional office hours. Flexibility is key
to creating an environment where women can thrive in leadership without unnecessary
barriers.”
Quotes attributable to CT Partners CEO Matt Masson:
“The travel industry has always been a place where women thrive, and CT Partners is
commi ed to fostering success for female leaders across our network. With over half of our
member businesses led by women, we see first-hand the strength, innova on, and
leadership they bring to corporate and luxury travel.”
“As an industry, we should be proud of the opportunities that exist for women at every stage
of their careers. However, there’s still work to be done to improve representation on at the very
top levels, and CT Partners remains dedicated to supporting greater diversity in travel
leadership.”
“As the third-largest travel buying group in Australia, with a Total Transaction on Value
exceeding $2 billion, our strength lies in the calibre of our members. Their ability to
innovate, lead, and navigate change is what continues to set them apart in the premium
travel sector.”
For more information, visit ctpartners.com.au.
For media enquiries, contact LJ Loch 0488 038 555 or ljloch@alphaconsulting.global
About CT Partners
Founded in 2004, CT Partners stands out as Australia’s leading independently owned travel-buying network, consistently championing the interests of its members by passing through 100% of supplier payments and driving innovation. CT Partners’ members are 32 of the most successful independent corporate-travel management firms, events companies and premium-leisure agencies and represent the third largest buying group in Australia, with TTV in excess of $2B in FY24. Each year, CT Partners member businesses look after theneeds of more than 2 million travellers.