| FACE-2-FACE: 23 Feb 22

ANGELA Middleton

Senior Manager Sales AUS/NZ, Norwegian Cruise Line

1. What is your favourite part of your job?

Providing my team with the tools and strategy to be the very best they can be, both in their careers and as a partner to our travel agents. I’m a passionate leader and I find mentoring — both acting as a mentor and being a mentee — is one of the most fulfilling parts of my job. It’s the reason I’ve been so closely involved with the TIME program for a number of years now, and why I advocate for my team to take part too.

2. What attracted you to a career in the cruise industry?

After 16 years in the tourism industry working in hotels, airlines and coach tours, cruising really was the next frontier for me to make my mark on! I started back in Dec 2019 — before we knew a pandemic was lying ahead — but I have learned so much along this journey which will continue to shape how I approach the future, and I’ve fallen in love with cruise.

3. What is key to success in the cruise industry?

It’s a competitive landscape, but I believe the keys to success are building strong relationships, finding your sense of purpose and investing in yourself. No matter where you are in your career, finding a mentor is so valuable. Whether it’s through a program like TIME or informally among senior colleagues, there is so much to gain, such as better negotiation skills when promotions are on the table, and importantly, job satisfaction.

4. How has COVID-19 changed the way you do your job?

It’s challenged me to find new ways of doing business when faced with lockdowns and travel restrictions. It also requires a different mindset to ensure my team feels engaged and motivated during challenging circumstances.

5. What is the best thing to say to people who are hesitant to cruise?

One of the most important jobs we can do right now is ensure that people feel confident to cruise. With the extensive health and safety protocols implemented in our industry we believe there is no safer (or fun) way to travel and explore your bucket list destinations.

6. What was your best famil trip?

Hosting a group of top achievers in Southern Italy.uise in 2019 hosted by Sarina Bratton which was pretty remarkable.

7. How do you wind down after a busy week?

By going out for dinner with my partner, enjoying a few cocktails and lots of yummy food! Sets the scene for a great weekend.

8. Is there a celebrity you’d most like to cruise with?

The King of Pop — Michael Jackson. He was my biggest inspiration as a young performer!

9. What should the cruise ship of the future look like?

Small and luxurious of course, able to explore further than ever before and be carbon neutral!

10. When not at work, how do you spend your time?

Currently I am finishing my post-grad study in marketing, so if I am not working, I am studying. Not long to go now!