Behind the scenes at FAME: my job as Office Designer
I never saw it coming, but during my internship at an Icelandic DMC in Reykjavik, my path suddenly crossed with FAME Travel Designers. At the time, they were accompanying an incentive trip in Iceland, and that’s how we got to know each other, somewhere between lava fields and under the northern lights. Coincidence or fate? I’d say fate. That first encounter left a strong impression. So when a job opening came up later on, I knew: I had to go for it.
Not long after, I started working as an Office Assistant at FAME. I expected it wouldn’t be a typical office job — but I never could’ve imagined just how diverse and dynamic the role would turn out to be. My responsibilities go far beyond traditional administrative support. I build registration websites that are clear, structured and user-friendly. I develop event apps with detailed programme overviews and send out practical information emails covering everything participants need to know: from vaccinations and climate conditions to travel documents and packing essentials. I handle invoicing, special requests, and flight upgrades, and I create baggage tags and custom menus, all while ensuring every detail is correct. I’m also involved in satisfaction surveys and a bit of accounting — and yes, even keeping our office stocked and running smoothly is part of my job. No task is too small, and that variety is exactly what makes the work so engaging.
Hoewel mijn werk zich vaak achter de schermen afspeelt, weet ik hoe groot mijn invloed is op het geheel. Elke goed voorbereide reis begint bij een solide basis, en die basis help ik leggen. Het geeft me voldoening te weten dat wat ik doe, bijdraagt aan een vlotte reiservaring en onvergetelijke herinneringen voor onze klanten.
What truly sets this job apart is that I don’t just work in behind the scenes. I attend events, meet professionals from the field and get to network with like-minded people. I’m also given the chance to explore new destinations and occasionally accompany groups on-site. These experiences not only deepen my understanding of operations on the ground, but also help me grow within my role and broaden my perspective.On top of that, I get to lead unique projects. Last year, I managed the MICE Travel Awards submission for FAME, and more recently I’ve taken on responsibility for our sustainability initiatives. In this way, I can contribute to FAME’s future and to a more sustainable travel industry.
What I value most in my work is how it constantly challenges me. No routines, no predictability — just daily opportunities to learn, improve and discover more about myself. Flexibility isn’t optional, it’s essential. It’s crucial to stay organised, especially when things get hectic. Planning, prioritising and clear communication are my go-to tools. But experience teaches you even more — like sensing what truly needs your attention, and having the confidence to make quick decisions.
Because some days, let’s be honest, are just pure madness: a sudden airport strike, a participant who breaks an arm mid-incentive, the printer is out of ink, the dishwasher is beeping, the parcel guy from bpost is waiting downstairs, a colleague is calling for you — and you’ve been needing to pee for over an hour. And in that moment, all you can think is: I really need a slice of bread with Nutella right now.
Luckily, I’m not alone in this. Beyond the variety and challenges, it’s really the people that complete the picture. We’re a tight-knit team that supports, challenges and strengthens each other. We work hard, but we laugh just as much. We share a passion for creating unforgettable experiences — and you can feel that in everything we do. And that’s what makes this job so meaningful to me. I get to be part of the creative heart of a passionate team, where I continue to learn and grow every single day. No two days are the same, and I keep discovering more — about travel, about service, about efficiency, and most of all: about myself. And that, to me, is the true beauty of this job — I’m not just growing as a professional, I’m growing as a person.
