TORONTO — The Travel Agent Next Door has announced the departure of Penny Martin, VP Agent Experience, effective August 2024.

With the company since its inception, Martin has worked alongside founder Flemming Friisdahl as they built the company from the ground up 10 years ago.

“To see us grow from zero to over 1,200 agents was very exciting and rewarding,” she said. “I am so fortunate that I have had the privilege of working with so many wonderful people throughout my career.  It has been filled with unforgettable experiences, and I am immensely grateful for all of you who have been a part of it.”

Martin noted that although she will be retiring from her role at TTAND, she hopes to stay involved in the travel industry in some capacity. “Travel is in my blood!” she said.

On her many contributions at the company, Friisdahl added: “Penny has been by my side from well before we even opened our doors and I could not have built this company without her and she has been a key member of our team and instrumental in our growth. Timely and complete support for our agents is one of the key pillars at The Travel Agent Next Door and Penny has overseen this area from the beginning, ensuring our agents had everything they needed to sell travel and be successful.”

He added: “Many people often would joke that Penny was my work wife and Rhonda was my home wife. I’m not sure who was the lucky one but without both these ladies The Travel Agent Next Door would simply not be the company it is. 

“I am very happy for Penny as she moves into this new phase in her life and I will miss my daily interaction with her. However, knowing Penny (as I do) I am sure we will get to see lots of her, as she will still be around TTAND from time to time, making sure I am doing a good job!”