Sue Hollis, co-founder of TravelEdge, has made significant strides in the corporate travel industry since launching her company in July 2000. With a focus on innovation and client satisfaction, Hollis has transformed TravelEdge into the largest privately owned corporate travel management company in Australia, boasting revenues of $250 million and a corporate buying power of $1.5 billion.
Early Career and Founding TravelEdge
Before embarking on her entrepreneurial journey, Hollis built a robust career in the airline industry, working for major players like Qantas and British Airways. Her experience in sales, operations, and global strategy laid a solid foundation for her future endeavors. In collaboration with Grant Wilson, a former senior executive at Qantas, she co-founded TravelEdge with the vision of creating a values-driven business that would stand out in a traditional industry.
Hollis emphasizes the importance of staying ahead of industry trends. “Our goal is to be the most dynamic and respected deliverer of travel-related services to corporate Australia,” she stated in an interview with SmartCompany. She believes in developing innovative solutions that give clients greater control and continuously evolving services to meet their needs.
Growth and Leadership Philosophy
Under Hollis’s leadership, TravelEdge has expanded significantly, now encompassing four distinct companies and employing over 120 staff members. Her approach to leadership revolves around empowering her team. “Your business will eventually stagnate if everything comes back to you,” she advises. By hiring talented individuals and allowing them autonomy, she fosters an environment where creativity and growth can flourish.
Hollis’s journey to success has been marked by challenges that tested her resilience. The first year of TravelEdge was particularly tumultuous, coinciding with the bankruptcy of major clients and the impact of September 11 on international travel. Despite these setbacks, Hollis and Wilson persevered, learning valuable lessons about adaptability and risk management along the way.
Transitioning to Executive Director
After 16 years at the helm as CEO, Hollis stepped back from day-to-day operations to focus on strategic initiatives as Executive Director. This transition allowed her to hire a chief executive officer to manage daily operations while she dedicated time to projects close to her heart, such as supporting parents of children with learning disabilities.
Hollis’s commitment to her core values has been instrumental in shaping TravelEdge’s culture and success. She envisions a company that makes a difference for its clients, its employees, and the broader community.
Sue Hollis’s Bold Leap
After leaving her corporate job, Sue Hollis took a bold leap into entrepreneurship, co-founding her own company to reclaim her values and integrity. Driven by a desire for equality and control, she embraced the risks associated with starting anew. Hollis emphasized the importance of living authentically, stating, “I woke up one morning and realized I wasn’t happy.” Following her departure, she traveled solo across the U.S. for four months on her motorbike, seeking adventure and self-discovery. This journey reignited her passion for life and inspired her to mentor others in achieving their success.
Recent Developments
In recent news, Sue Hollis has embraced new opportunities beyond TravelEdge. She has taken on the role of coach and mentor for aspiring entrepreneurs while continuing to explore her passion for adventure. Recently, she completed an 83-day solo motorcycle journey across the United States—a trip that provided her with profound insights into life and business.
During this adventure, Hollis reflected on her experiences as an entrepreneur and the feelings of emptiness that can accompany success. “I realized I wanted more than just career achievements; I wanted experiences that enriched my life,” she shared in an interview.
Hollis is not resting on her laurels; she is actively considering two new start-up opportunities that align with her vision of creating impactful businesses. Her journey from corporate executive to successful entrepreneur exemplifies her belief that true fulfillment comes from pursuing one’s passions while making a positive difference in others’ lives.
Sue Hollis’s story is one of courage, innovation, and commitment to core values. Through TravelEdge, she has redefined corporate travel management and created an environment where others can thrive. As she embarks on new ventures and continues to inspire others through mentorship, Hollis remains a dynamic force in both the business world and her pursuits. Her journey serves as a reminder that success is not solely defined by financial achievements but also by the positive impact one can make on their community and beyond.