Brad Ford
Where were you born? In Toronto.
How long have you been in the business? 15 years, since when I started in sales and marketing for Global Matrix.
How many people work for you? 16 here in Canada, several hundred globally.
What’s the best part of the job? I’m always learning something! Plus getting to meet with dynamic people.
What did you want to be as a kid? I wanted to be a classical ballet dancer – I was scouted by Rudolph Nureyev and danced professionally until I was 26. I gave it up when I met someone and decided to return to Canada from New York. Ballet takes an incredible toll, requiring preparation and dedication. I do miss it though, because there’s a certain rush about getting into performance.
What’s the scariest thing you’ve ever done? Swimming with hundreds of sharks in the Galapagos. I don’t tend to be fearful but my body told me, “This is absolutely not natural!”
What’s your favourite airline? Air Canada – I’ve had nothing but terrific experiences with them.
Do you have a favourite travel app? The Contiki app Shout. It has currency conversion, facts and info, language tips. Best of all, it allows you to store posts and updates until you are in a free wifi zone and then releases them – a great money saver.
Any hobbies or interests? I love outdoor adventure – climbing, hiking, swimming.
What skill or talent do you admire in someone? I love people who can sing. If you can sing you can get pretty much anything from me.
Is there anything you won’t eat? Nothing. My motto is to try everything once.
Ever had a brush with fame? All the time in my ballet world in New York – Andy Warhol, fashion designers, singers.
What keeps you awake at night? Not very much… I’m always thinking of the next deal, the next big thing.
How do you spend your frequent flyer points? I tend to cash them in for Holt Renfrew gift cards!
What was your proudest moment? Watching my niece graduate from college.
How do you stay fit when you travel? Laughs. It’s tough! This industry is tough on your metabolism. Try to go for a very long walk in the mornings and evenings.
If you could change one thing about the industry what would it be? That’s a big one. I would say we need strong, informed business owners who look at realistic opportunities.
If you could sit next to anyone on a long-haul flight, who would it be? My wife, Marie-Eve.
Do you have a favourite charity? The Travel Corporation has a foundation called Treadright and at Contiki we support ocean-related causes.
What will be the biggest challenge for the industry in the next 12 months? Agents have to start drawing more revenue by selling product that will give them income.
What do you hope to be doing in 10 years? Building business, developing alliances and bringing a bit of mischief to the travel industry!
