An albatross might fly, but this happy team prefers to take the bus. The Albatross Travel Group sells group coach tours in locations from the UK and Europe to New Zealand and Australia. Work isn't a holiday, but the offices in Larkfield, Kent, are relaxed nonetheless. The 62 employees, who sell to other travel agents rather than direct to the public, say that their deadlines are realistic (a 76% positive score) and they don't feel exhausted at the end of most days (59%). Sean Taggart, managing director, is a charismatic figure and staff have a great deal of faith in his leadership (90%). He and other senior managers listen to employees, rather than just telling them what to do (81%). Last year, Albatross rethought its values and, as well as passion, these now include humility. Taggart and senior managers truly live these values (82%). In this spirit, there is time for fun as well as work. “We have great parties,” Albatross says, and these include a summer barbecue, various nights out and a Christmas bash. The £10,000 fun budget also funds monthly lunches for staff to get to know the group directors. The company gives a lot to its local community (68%), with 25 people volunteering for good causes in work time last year. There's a fundraising day for the Heart of Kent hospice, and a commitment to the charity Children of Kerala. Albatross also offers business support and helps with travel arrangement for Crossroads, an organisation that cares for carers. Customer service staff earn a typical £21,000 a year, with 23 days of holiday. Half the team get performance-related pay and a few have profit bonuses and a contributory pension. Every year, there is a company convention, followed by a gala dinner and the “Albatroscars”. Staff feel a strong sense of family in their teams (81%). “We have a great deal of fun together riding the Albatross train to its next destination,” the firm adds.
