40 Under 40

Elish Tait, Air Canada Vacations

Last updated: 7:00 AM ET, Mon October 28, 2024

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Bio 

Elish Tait of Air Canada Vacations began her journey in travel 14 years ago as an apprentice with TUI in Scotland. By 21, she was managing one of the busiest stores, driven by a love for the industry. 

Moving to Canada, Tait played a key role in launching The Travel Agent Next Door, which ignited her passion for helping others succeed. Today, as the youngest National Accounts Manager at Air Canada Vacations, she is a major contributor to the company’s award-winning sales team.

Tait is also pursuing a Business Management degree to keep pushing boundaries and drive future success in this ever-evolving industry.

Tait is 32 years old.

"I am truly humbled and incredibly proud to be named to the Travel Industry's 40 Under 40. This prestigious recognition means so much to me, as it reflects the journey I’ve been on within an industry that has profoundly shaped the person I am today. Travel has not only shaped my career but has also played a pivotal role in my personal journey, from immigrating and becoming a proud Canadian to expanding my understanding of different cultures and enhancing my education. Through travel, I’ve had the privilege of exploring the world, learning about new cultures, and broadening my horizons in ways I could never have imagined. I owe so much to the many mentors who have guided me along the way (too many to name!), who offered me invaluable lessons and, most importantly, gave me a chance. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their wisdom and support, and I am forever grateful. This recognition is as much a reflection of their influence as it is of my own efforts. Thank you for this incredible honor. It holds special meaning as it acknowledges the dedication and hard work that has gone into my career. I am proud to now be in a position where I can give back to the industry that has given me so much and help shape the future for the next generation of travel professionals.”

Industry Reference

“I have had the pleasure to work with Elish for several years. She joined our company—The Travel Agent Next Door—when she emigrated from Scotland,” The Travel Agent Next Door Founder & CEO Flemming Friisdahl said. “From the start, I recognized her potential and before long Elish was taking on various special projects within the company. We soon learned that if we wanted something done, we could give it to Elish.”

“We were very sorry to see Elish eventually move on to her new role as a Business Development Manager at Air Canada Vacations, but we were not surprised,” Friisdahl continued. “Watching her succeed in her new role has been a source of pride and we know Elish will go far. She is one of those rare people that you love to find that you can give anything to and she gets it done.”


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