Flightie Spotlight: meet product guru Brooke Reidy

🎤 How did your journey begin?

My journey with FCTG began when I became disillusioned with lab work. I'd finished university during the GFC when no-one was hiring graduates. One weekend I saw a Cruiseabout job listing and figured it would be fun before returning to the "real world". I had no idea how big FCTG was or that Cruiseabout was part of it. I vividly remember leaving the group interview, calling a friend and saying "this is the best job ever, I want to work for this company so bad". I started as a novice at Runaway Bay Gold Coast in a turnaround store. We made global our first full financial year and celebrated in Cancun. Within months I knew product was my BOF.

🎤 What roles have you held?

After 3 years in retail, I moved into the Queensland product team in product manager and leadership roles. I had a passion for airfares but loved land & sea even more. In 2018 I moved into land & sea contracting as their strategist. In that role I found love (on a cruise ship!) and moved interstate before Covid, always knowing I'd return to FCTG. When I saw Cruiseabout re-launch I knew that's where I wanted to be. I'm fortunate our General Manager, Bradley Kennedy, took a leap of faith and I'm now Head of Product for Cruiseabout Australia.

🎤 What does your role look like today?

When I started it was just me designing strategy, product and executing everything. My team now has three amazing product coordinators. I work with cruise partners on future strategies and campaigns. I collaborate with internal teams across cruise, air, hotels and insurance to deliver our 'More than Cruise' strategies. I lead my team and help them grow toward their BOF. I love that my role keeps me connected to our Cruise Travel Advisors.

🎤 What keeps you inspired?

Knowing there's no ceiling. FCTG is a growth business that never settles and always explores new opportunities. The reward and recognition is second to none. It's a company where I've found not only work I love but some of my best friends.

🎤 Who are you outside the office?

I'm a mum to a 3 year old tornado named Zara. The love I left FCTG for is now my husband. We always have our next holiday booked and love the beach and outdoors.

🎤 What's your favourite destination?

So many trips are special for different reasons! I recently went to the Philippines on my honeymoon and El Nido was one of the most stunning natural environments I've seen. It's great more cruise ships are stopping in Palawan! Also hard to beat my recent Icon of the Seas experience in the Caribbean which combined beaches, tropical weather and their onboard dog Rover who stole my heart!

‍Thanks for sharing your inspiring story Brooke.

‍See yourself here? Explore all open roles at FCTG today!