As we head towards the end of 2018, it’s worth reflecting on this amazing year at Pentravel – our 35th year in business. And who better to sit down with? Our CEO, Paulo of course!
Paulo, with 35 years of success behind us, what can you tell aspiring Pentravel employees?
Yes! 35 years! Pentravel has consistently grown to become a leading established retail leisure brand, born and bred right here in South Africa. It has been an amazing journey, starting from our humble beginnings with a single store in Musgrave, Durban and we are now located in stores throughout South Africa, in all the major shopping malls and still growing.
Our message to anyone wanting a career in travel? Pentravel in a nutshell, is about people first, having fun, striving to excel through any day to day challenges – which of course, gets rewarded and recognized at all role levels in multiple ways.
What do you believe to be Pentravel’s greatest achievement in 2018?
There were two achievements that really stood out, first being our people. It was the biggest travelling year for our staff yet – as they earned, a wonderful mixture of incentives and travel opportunities to exciting destinations and enjoy awesome travel experiences.
The second, would be our record breaking 2018 Sales year, by delivering consistent – high value, client-centric service though quality experience.
What sets Pentravel apart from competitors?
Our well known, tried and trusted, highly respected brand which boast the most positive client compliments in our segment. And I would definitely add, the way we look after all our teams with in the stores or at our support centres, around the country.
We have an incredibly high staff retention compared to other travel leisure companies for our size, which is significant.
What do you love most about working at Pentravel?
Simple mantra…Love what you do and do what you love! It is really important, that one is sincere about making a difference and having a purpose at work [and in life]. I am fortunate, to be part of an experienced and ambitious team. We make swift calls to action. My primary role is to alleviate any impediments, so that anyone, can be the best they can be and find success in their respective roles. It is so important to create a space that enables a fun and contains a strong culture in a high performing environment.
How do you reward success?
Many ways, be it financially and through our incredible incentive trips and travel opportunities. I’m talking real bucket-list experiences. This year top achievers are enjoying a luxury Uniworld river cruise in Europe. Last year, it was a cruise on the largest ship in the world, Oasis of the Seas.
What is extra special, is these are partner trips, where you can take your significant other. They are a big part of your success so sharing your success with them is really nice. That’s the very top!
As someone new joining Pentravel, our reward is spread throughout the company. You could be within us for a year and already earn a reward or incentive or cruise even – it all depends upon your adaptability and smart work ethic. We don’t look at years, we look more at the person and the right fit – generally, the people we hire are people who you’d normally socialise with over a braai.
Tell us a bit more about your annual awards?
Every year, our biggest and most anticipated event of the year, is our Annual Awards. This is where your yearlong work, is recognized on the grandest of stages. Everyone on the winning stage, has reached the top of their game and it is a real celebration.
Our 2018 awards were hosted on an exclusive equestrian estate on the South Coast and the year before, at an aeroplane hangar. Yes, real aeroplanes. It is the ultimate celebration of the success from all teams, of all people, who give their perfect effort.
Sunshine is not a noun, for Pentravel it is a verb – it is our action – it is what our culture is about!
Join us at Pentravel and be part of our amazing culture. Apply now.