That’s why MTA’s Executive Assistance team is an invaluable resource, providing dedicated operational support at no additional cost to Platinum Elite advisors.

For MTA Platinum Elite advisor Wendy Summerlin, her partnership with MTA Executive Assistant Julia Bond has been nothing short of transformative.

A Game-Changer for Work-Life Balance

For Wendy, having Julia as part of MTA’s Executive Assistance team has completely redefined how she manages her workload.

“Where do I start with that? Invaluable. Having Julia has changed the number of hours I work, and without this, I would have no work-life balance,” Wendy shares. “But more than that, she provides another set of competent eyes on my work—someone to share decisions with. I love it.”

Having a trusted partner to share the load means Wendy can focus on what she does best: creating incredible travel experiences for her clients.

Systems That Drive Success

Behind every well-run business is a well-structured system. Wendy and Julia have developed a refined, organised workflow to keep everything on track.

“Julia has an efficient task list she updates daily, adding and removing as needed. It’s colour-coded by priority, which keeps everything crystal clear. With this level of organisation, nothing falls through the cracks, ensuring a seamless experience for me and my clients.”

For Julia, stepping in to support Wendy and her clients has been a process of learning and adapting.

“Since July 2023, I’ve had the opportunity to learn about Wendy, her business, clients, and preferences, allowing me to support her effectively. Every Platinum Elite is unique, and building trust and systems takes time and effective communication.” Julia shares. “The better the communication and teamwork, the better the outcome. When both parties embrace feedback and growth, the results are exceptional!”

Building Trust Through Communication

Trust is essential in any working relationship, and Julia acknowledges that open and respectful communication is the backbone of their collaboration.

“The backbone to building trust is open and respectful communication. This has allowed me to get to know Wendy and how she operates, as well as getting to know her expectations and the expectations of her clients.”

Wendy echoes this, explaining that trust was her biggest concern at the start.

“Trust—that’s it. It was hard to let go at first, but now? No problem. Her work is great. She has strengths, and I have mine. Lucky for me, she’s strong where I am not!”

Going Beyond the Job Description

True support means stepping up when it matters most. For Wendy, one moment stands out as an example of Julia’s dedication and commitment.

“I had been working on this tricky booking for weeks. Julia was right there with me, keeping track of every update. While I was away, she was emailing me with progress, determined to have it wrapped up before I got home. Due to changes on the client’s side, it wasn’t possible—but Julia gave it everything she had to try and make it happen. That’s the kind of dedication she brings.”

For Julia, the reward is knowing she’s making a tangible difference in Wendy’s business and personal well-being.

“I love knowing my work makes a difference—that Wendy has better work-life balance because of it. Being an extra resource and a second pair of eyes for her is truly rewarding.”

A Unique Support Model That Sets MTA Apart

MTA’s Executive Assistance program is more than just an administrative service—it’s part of the company’s broader philosophy of ensuring advisors feel fully supported in every aspect of their business.

“MTA differs in their approach because they invest in areas where advisors need the most support. They understand the evolving travel industry and set new standards for service. Even though our advisors work remotely, they’re never alone—they have an entire head office team supporting them.”

From famil leave coverage to ongoing business support, the Executive Assistance team ensures that advisors can take time off when needed, maintain client service excellence, and continue growing their businesses without sacrificing personal well-being.

A Travel Essential You Can’t Pack

When asked about the one thing she can’t travel without, Wendy didn’t hesitate: “Julia!”

For advisors at MTA, the support doesn’t stop at booking systems and supplier contracts—it’s about real, human support that allows them to do their best work. And for advisors like Wendy, having an Executive Assistant like Julia makes all the difference.

From day one, all MTA Advisors have access to the Travel Assistance team at no additional cost. Whether they’re away on a famil, taking well-earned leave, or recovering from illness, this team provides essential support and is one of MTA’s unique service offerings.

For Platinum Elite Advisors, this support goes even further with the Executive Assistance Team, offering up to 20 hours per week of dedicated assistance from an experienced in-house travel advisor, helping them manage their workload, enhance client service and importantly to maintain a better work-life balance.

For more information, visit mtatravel.com.au/joinus.