Travel agency manager : Training

Training is mainly on the job; however large companies may provide off-site training, some of which may be residential.

City & Guilds  offers a number of qualifications relevant to the travel industry. Some of these are available through distance learning. There is also an International Air Transportation Association (IATA) Stepping into Management course which is part of their Travel and Tourism Training Programme. NVQs and SVQs are offered at different levels, which include courses relevant to managers or potential managers.

Initial training will depend on the amount of relevant prior experience gained in a retail or sales setting. Industry-specific training will occupy the early stages and may include travelling abroad or to other parts of the UK, as well as training in sales areas such as insurance and online booking systems. Skills such as payroll matters can be learnt on the job, as can some management skills such as dealing with staff grievances. Training in these areas may be provided as part of the handover from the departing manager.

Continuous professional development (CPD) is encouraged through an industry-standard scheme developed by the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA)  in association with the Institute of Travel and Tourism (ITT)  and People 1st . The Accredited Travel Professional scheme (ATP) recognises the qualifications and experience of those working in the travel industry and aims to promote active learning, career progression and increased employability.