Viola Kola, Groups and MICE Manager, Fine Travel Albania DMC

To help current students and recent graduates navigate the world of work, several USI Alumni shared their career paths and career story. Here the story of Viola Kola, Groups and MICE Manager at Fine Travel Albania DMC in Tirana (AL). USI Degree: Master in International Tourism, 2020.

How did you start your career?

I started out as a scientific collaborator for the USI Institute for Economic Research at that time ran by Prof. Rico Maggi. Even though for most of my time, this position was offsite (mostly due to the pandemics), I was able to gain a great international professional and personal experience. I then proceed to accept a role as an incoming travel agent in a local DMC in Tirana, Albania. After two years, I was recruited by Fine Travel Albania DMC - a DMC focused on a more sustainable tourism. I currently hold the role of the Groups and MICE Manager.

Why did you choose a career at Fine Travel Albania DMC?

After two years of experience in the tourism field, Fine Travel Albania DMC was the perfect opportunity for me to grow in my career. Given its focus on sustainable tourism and the possibility to explore yet another facet of tourism such as MICE, it presents a new challenge for me.

What is your current role/duties?

I am the Groups and MICE Manager. I deal with incoming tourism mostly from USA and Europe. My main duties include: creating, negotiating, and selling customized travel itineraries in Albania and Western Balkans, source products and destinations to meet consumer demands for bespoke travel and sustainable tourism, liaise with travel partners, including accommodations structures, transport services, tour guides, to manage bookings and schedules, often a year in advance, as well as manage budgets and maintain statistical and financial records.

In your opinion, what are the qualities necessary for a successful career at Fine Travel Albania DMC?

Drive, creativity, multitasking, time-management and high level of organization.

What positive aspects and qualities meant most to you during the study programme you attended?

During the Master in International Tourism, I had the pleasure to be exposed to international academic staff and international students. This in turn created a great environment that challenged all of us to collaborate together and to think out of the box. Additionally, the variety of the subjects that we were offered, definitely helped us understand what our best abilities were. During my time in the Master, I had the opportunity to also serve as the Master's intern. This experience helped me tremendously as it already gave me a jump start when starting to look for a job in the tourism field.

What competences and/or skills acquired in your USI Study Program have been useful/are useful to your professional career?

Due to being exposed to many projects and field work, time management and teamwork are skills that I still find very useful in my professional career.

What is your advice to USI students entering the job market?

Find something that you are truly passionate about and build up your path. It might be challenging at first, but don't get discouraged. If you truly work hard, your work will be recognized. Maintain relationships with people and do not be afraid to voice your opinions.