Spotlight on Maureen Brady, 2021 WINiT Top 50 Women in Travel Recipient

MaureenIn her role as chief operations officer and part of the executive committee at CTM North America, Maureen is responsible for driving CTM North America’s operational vision and strategy for CTM’s performance and growth. Prior to joining CTM in 2019, she held executive roles in operations, global corporate acquisition integrations and global business solutions stretching across three continents with multiple global travel management companies.

Why is WINiT important to you?
By sheer numbers, women comprise more than 50% of the workforce, but less than 50% of the C-Level roles in the industry. WINiT creates a platform, voice and space for the unique needs and concerns of women in travel.

What’s a mistake or defeat you were able to learn from and turn into a success?
There have been several. From a career perspective, it was just sticking with an assumption. I’ve since learned to test assumptions. Another was thinking I had to have all the answers. It’s ok to be vulnerable and enlist the help and support of others.

What’s the best advice you’ve been given in your career, and what advice would you give to women just starting their careers in business travel?
My dad told me: Take your work seriously, but not yourself. Work hard and have some fun along the way. And invest in your network and others – you never know when you’ll need their help. I’d tell women just starting out: Don’t deny yourself as being a woman. Know your worth, value, and what you contribute to the bottom line.