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Having last month officially stepping down after 10 years on the Virtuoso Regional Member Advisory Board and the Global Board last month, Anthony Goldman, Joint Managing Director of Goldman Group, shares some thoughts and reflections on the experience with LATTE.

What has been your proud achievement whilst being on the Virtuoso board?

“There is so much that we have achieved together. I think true globalisation of Virtuoso and its membership is a highlight. When I first got involved, Virtuoso was very US-centric. That’s because 90% of agencies were based in the US. Today, Virtuoso has agencies all around the globe. Being a part of these discussions, debates and recommendations was enlightening and extremely heartening.”

“The other highlight is how we have managed to keep a healthy, thriving community. Despite increased competition and challenges, the Virtuoso community is stronger than ever. I don’t really see anyone as a competitor. There is enough business for everyone.”

What motivated you to being involved?

“I don’t believe in sitting on the sidelines. The Goldmans like to be involved. Tom, Dave and I have always got our hands dirty on committees and boards. That way you can positively contribute to the industry. I don’t stand for pot shots. It’s easy to comment, but to help shape change is the hard work.”

How has the agency landscape changed in the last 10 years?

“Where do I start? I think remuneration and talent are the two big changes. I respect how agencies are remunerated; we need to continue to work with our partners to maximise their returns. We are an extension of their sales teams. And need to be rewarded for that.

“In the next 5-7 years we will see more changing of the guard in the industry. We need to continue to attract new talent to the industry.”

Biggest challenges facing luxury players in Australia?

“The biggest challenge is the continued pursuit for excellence. It’s hard. Keeping up with the demands of our clients, the expectation of product knowledge and the rejuvenation of client bases. The challenge is not to stand still and get caught up daily tasks. Easily said, I know.”

Fondest memory?

“I have to stay the many partnerships with our team and supplier partners have been very rewarding. Genuine people with real positive intentions. I’m in my early 50’s, so I have many more years to make more memories.”

Do you have words of advice for people thinking about getting involved?

“Yes. Get involved with something which makes your heart race. For the better or worse. Invest time in helping to shape our industry. We need people from different backgrounds to make our committees and boards better.”

What’s next on your agenda?

“We always have projects on the go. New talent is high on the list as it professional development for our teams. Agency remuneration is also on our hitlist. I’m always going to be involved with Virtuoso and with Link Travel Group. We have a lot in the pipeline.”

Lead image: Pictured in 2016, from left: Anthony Goldman, Virtuoso’s CEO/Chairman Matthew Upchurch and Executive Vice President, David Kolner, with David Goldman, Co Managing Director, Goldman Group.

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