What’s the inspiration behind Trip360?
Trip360 started about seven years ago, when I first consulted and implemented marketing automation tools for organizations. The majority of my clients failed to manage and maintain their customer journey and they weren't making major progress to enhance their customer experience. I knew this could be better, especially in specific industries, so I launched Trip360 to provide an all-in-one solution to create seamless, personalized customer experience and journeys.
How as COVID-19 impacted your business?
The COVID-19 pandemic only emphasized the need for superior customer experience and support during travel time. Over the past year, we responded to the pandemic by making our platform available to travel brands without any upfront payment. We incorporated all regulations, information, and safety measures that are required when visiting different countries and destinations, directly into the product. Essentially, we used this moment as an opportunity to enhance our offering and to help save our clients time, so they can focus on customer acquisition.
Are you making any changes as you prepare for the post-pandemic travel world?
Customer safety and experience have always been a top priority in the industry, but the pandemic has made this even more important for brands to build trust with customers. We believe that we can help brands design personalized experiences throughout each traveler's journey, which we hope will build trust and greater opportunities for brands to enhance their customer engagement.
What’s been the #1 (or two) top challenge(s) you’ve faced while launching your company?
The #1 challenge was maintaining budgets and cash flows. At first, we didn't need to raise money; we managed to generate revenue prior to the pandemic. COVID-19 forced us to adjust our model and to be very creative in order to reduce costs without affecting product development and recruitment.
You’ve been in the digital strategy space for 20+ years. How has this shaped you as an entrepreneur?
My first experience with entrepreneurship was when I joined a team of co-founders to work on a project at 26 years old. My role was mainly technical and I enjoyed the benefit of having someone else lead the company and make the big decisions. Over my career, I held a variety of managerial positions where I quickly learned that at the end of the day, entrepreneurship is not only having the idea, but also the ability to execute. Having this past experience has helped me feel confident and ready to lead Trip360 and the team.
You received the Top 100 Influential People in Digital Technology Award. What was that experience like?
It was very satisfying to get this award. I was told just two days before the official announcement and was very excited to receive this at the country level. In some ways, it recognizes many years of hard work.
What’s your team culture like?
I like to think of us as a big family. We have known each other for at least 10 years. We get together for holidays with our families, we talk and work together around the clock. We really care about one other not only as team members, but also as friends.
What is your superpower?
Creativity and finding new ways to overcome challenges.
What’s been your favorite trip of all time?
Taking my daughters to Thailand. I had been there many times before, but this was the first time for them. Seeing their excitement and the spark in their eyes made me enjoy the trip like it was my first time.
Do you have any other hobbies/things you like to do in your spare time?
I love the beach. I go to the beach almost every other day, usually in the evening. Before the pandemic I used to surf (SUP) for a few years. I plan to get back to that ASAP, but for now baking cakes is one of my favorite and strongest hobbies.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?
You must enjoy the way. Not everything happens as planned and success is not always visible, therefore you must enjoy what you are doing and keep moving forward.