Justine Tatt

As the recession continues to grip the nation and recruitment opportunities seem few and far between, the recent recruitment drive by Holiday Extras has gone some way to alleviating any job uncertainty for a number of new recruits.

Justine Tatt was one of those selected from the many applicants to join the award-winning Contact Centre at Holiday Extras in March. "I knew that Holiday Extras was the market leader in its field, and had a reputation for being a good employer," said Justine. "That made me very interested in becoming part of the team.

"I had checked the website for vacancies on a number of occasions, but there didn't appear to be any opportunities in the Contact Centre." Like many, Justine decided to try her luck and sent her CV to the People Team at the company headquarters in Newingreen, Hythe.

"I was delighted to be contacted with details of a vacancy within the Contact Centre. Working in a customer service and sales environment, as well as being part of a successful and dynamic team, is something I really enjoy. My previous experience as a customer representative for Nationwide Building Society put me in good stead to join, and so far I have found it to be a very lively, friendly and motivational environment in which to work."

Justine joined six other recruits in becoming part of a team named the Best Contact Centre in the Entertainment, Leisure and Travel Sector at the Top 50 Call Centre Awards in 2008.

Peter Mooney, head of operations at Holiday Extras, said: "We are delighted to have brought on board all our recent recruits. At a time when job security is a priority and vacancies are sparse, we at Holiday Extras are striving to do everything we can for regional employment."

And what of Justine's experience so far? "It seems that everyone is valued for their efforts. I've also had the opportunity to attend my first 'catch-up' meeting during which I gained a greater knowledge of the company and was informed about new ideas and projects that were being carried out.

"It's great to be part of a company where team are regularly informed of its progress and plans. I hope to play a part in Holiday Extras' future, gaining as much experience as possible and working in a variety of departments in order to gain an all-round knowledge of the company."