Where does the Travel Department report to in your company? Every company has its own organizational requirements, and as a result the travel department may fall under any one of a number of different areas in the corporate structure. Human Resources, Finance, Risk, Facilities, and Procurement – travel touches all these areas in one way or another.

 In my company, the travel department reports to Human Resources. This arrangement brings opportunities for me to broaden travel’s reach and learn different skills. In addition it gives me an opening to introduce the travel program to new hires. I have been able to present our travel program to them from day one; this helps them adjust to our company culture and understand the policy and its importance to our organization’s success. This is a huge advantage in helping keep new hires in compliance.  

Being in HR has given me the responsibility for implementing Relocation and Immigration activities for our expanding workforce. Being involved in these complex and very diverse fields has been a great way for me to understand how the company is growing globally.  

For one thing, I have taken advantage of being the point of contact for this group to get to know the different cultures, assisting transferees as they settle in to their new life in this global community. On top of the satisfaction I find in taking time to help someone begin a new life, along the way I’m also learning how to handle various tax issues from country to country, and different types of visa requirements.

As travel managers, the landscape keeps constantly changing for our job roles. New strategic initiatives and new product developments, new travel technologies and above all, new people are coming into our corporations all the time. These are factors that can lead to organizational moves. Who knows where the next round of changes will come from? And who can say what that will mean for travel departments?

In the midst of this shifting landscape, my best advice for travel managers is to keep an open mind, look for opportunities to learn innovative skills and embrace the path that your new direction may become. All this newly acquired know-how and experience helps you become a more valuable and strategic part of your organization. So if the chance comes your way, take advantage of being a part of a new team and/or department.  

 I appreciate the fact that I am an extended part of the HR team. Our position on the company org chart reflects the personal, individual nature of travel and the way it affects our employees out on the road.  

But Travel is a function that reaches all areas of every company. From my perspective, wherever you are in the corporation, it is always a great opportunity to develop new skills, grow your personal talents and add more value to your organization, your travelers and your career.