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Besides two decades of experience founding and running a successful SME, Robyn also brings an impressive international network of business contacts, particularly from the rich emerging markets of the Middle East and Gulf States. In addition, Innovative Travel is a member of the Auckland-based NZ Middle East Council and the Italian Chamber of Commerce.
Under the highly regarded 'Ancient Kingdoms Holidays' banner, Innovative Travel has grown from a one-woman band to a 10-person Canterbury based operation, while drawing clients from all over New Zealand. In addition Robyn has acted as a tourism advisor on two Government trade missions to the Middle East/Gulf region.
She has become adept at controlling what is controllable in business and having to deal with the 'uncontrollable' aspects of business life. Not only has she ridden the roller coaster that is the New Zealand dollar for 20 years, but also contended with the business impact of two Gulf wars.
That kind of experience stood her in good stead in the latest economic downturn, seeing her successfully negotiate a 4.5-day work week with her team, prior to the Government four-day week initiative. She was then interviewed by various media for comments about her experience as a trailblazer for the shorter working week initiative.
A highlight of her career was to be instrumental in staging the first 'Opera at the Pyramids' event in 1997 when Dame Malvina Major performed to an audience of thousands, an event that was captured and featured in a top-rating episode of 60 Minutes. As a direct result of that effort, Robyn's Cairo-based business partner Elhamy El Zayat was invited to become New Zealand's Honorary Consul to Egypt.
Robyn's accomplishments in business saw her recognised in 2005 as Women in Business magazine's best MD in the SME category. She is also recognised by USA based Princeton Premiere for her outstanding contribution in the field of tourism. Innovative Travel has also won numerous international tourism awards, from Egypt to Jordan, for their commitment and excellence in developing tourism.
Robyn will bring to the Board a wealth of experience as the Managing Director of an SME. The past year has proved a significant challenge to most companies. It is a hard fought vision which will continue to take Canterbury business forward. As an advocate for the SME, she recognises the major contribution which SME's make to the NZ economy and that the voice of the SME's does matter and must be recognised.
