Meet the 1000MTG travel expert - Dave

From corporate career to independent success.

After more than 12 years in corporate travel, Dave felt something was missing. He wanted the freedom to run his own business, build close relationships with clients, and create the flexibility to work his way. With encouragement from former colleagues who had already joined, he took the leap—starting from scratch but determined to succeed.

“I knew the first year would be tough, but if you don’t make the change, you’ll never make the change,” Dave recalls. Today, he’s thriving as part of a close-knit UK team at 1000 Mile Travel Group.

Why 1000MTG?

Dave was drawn to 1000MTG’s boutique feel and personal leadership. “I didn’t want to be one of hundreds in a massive network. I wanted to be involved in the nitty gritty, where my voice mattered.”

Conversations with Nicola and Alex sealed the deal. “They inspired me and gave me the confidence that I could really do this. It was the cement on the cake.”

A Business Built on VIP Service

While Dave has a strong background in high-end leisure, today 90% of his business is corporate travel—managing hedge funds, tech companies, and production crews who rely on his high-touch, VIP-level service.

“What my clients don’t get from bigger companies is that extra level of care. They know with me—and with 1000MTG—they’re not just a number.”

Still, Dave enjoys sprinkling in leisure bookings, from honeymoons to bucket-list trips for friends and family.

The Power of Tools & Tech

For Dave’s largest client, CTM’s Lightning online booking tool has been a game-changer. “Without it, they wouldn’t be with us,” he says. Combined with the 1000MTG Hub, account management, and strong supplier relationships, Dave has the tools to run his business smoothly while focusing on what matters most—clients.

Going the Extra Mile

One moment that stands out for Dave was when a production crew became stranded in Saudi Arabia. With excess baggage issues and unhelpful airlines, they faced being stuck. Instead of passing them to an out-of-hours service, Dave stayed late into the night to get them home.

“They were so grateful and now they’re one of my regular clients. It’s about knowing when to step in and deliver that extra level of care.”

Working From Anywhere

Flexibility was one of Dave’s biggest motivators for going independent, and he’s embraced it fully. In 2024, he lived and worked in Bali for two months, with a side trip to Thailand.

“It was tough at times with late-night calls, but I’d wake up the next day in Bali and think, ‘I don’t care, I’m living my dream.’”

Since then, Dave has worked remotely from Spain and soon Vietnam and Cambodia. His goal is to visit at least two new countries every year while balancing work and travel.

Looking Ahead

Dave sees the future of independent advisors as a blend of human connection and smart technology. “AI is here to stay, and it helps us work faster. But clients still want a person, someone they trust. If you can offer that VIP service while keeping up with new tools, you’ll always have a place in this industry.”

A Supportive Community

One of Dave’s biggest surprises since joining 1000MTG has been the genuine support across the global network.

“In other companies, people guard their knowledge. Here, everyone shares freely. There’s no jealousy, just encouragement and celebrating each other’s wins. That’s what makes this community special.”

A Few Fun Extras

If Dave could teleport anywhere right now?
“An Antarctic cruise. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime trip—and teleporting would help skip the long journey and hefty price tag!”

Unexpected perk of joining 1000MTG?
“The connections. I can reach out to colleagues across the world for advice, and everyone is genuinely willing to help.”