Scotland’s Top Travel Talent Celebrated at SPAA Sparkle Awards 2025

 The Scottish Passenger Agents’ Association (SPAA) honoured Scotland’s brightest travel professionals at the fourth annual Sparkle Awards, today Friday 5 September at the Radisson Blu, Glasgow.

Designed to recognise front-line travel agency staff who go above and beyond for their clients, the Sparkle Awards showcase individuals across both leisure and corporate travel. This year’s winners reflect the strength, diversity and dedication of Scotland’s travel agency community.

2025 Winners

• Leisure Consultant of the Year – Jen Paterson, Murray Travel
• Business Travel Consultant of the Year – Dawn Van Zanten, Reed & Mackay
• Agency Support Award – Skye Simms, Reed & Mackay
• Touring & Adventure Consultant of the Year – David McKerry, We Do Travel
• Luxury Consultant of the Year – Sarah Murray, Murray Travel
• Team Player of the Year – Lucy Carlyle, Clyde Travel Management
• Newcomer of the Year – Klaire Taylor, Hays Travel PTC
• Leisure Travel Manager of the Year – Steven Anderson, Barrhead Travel
• Rising Star of the Year – Katie Roy, Thorne Travel
• Corporate Account Manager of the Year – Mel Thomson, ATPI
• Corporate Travel Manager of the Year – Gemma Spars, Munro’s Travel
• Cruise Consultant of the Year – Leesa Kilcollins, Hays Travel PTC

In addition, a Special Recognition Award was presented to Donna Bicker of Stewart Travel, marking 40 years of exceptional service to customers.

SPAA president Jac Dobson said,

“The Sparkle Awards are about celebrating the individuals who bring Scotland’s travel industry to life — those who work face-to-face with clients and ensure every journey is memorable. This year’s winners exemplify professionalism, passion and dedication, and it is fantastic to see so many rising stars alongside long-serving industry icons.

”We were also delighted to see so many first time entrants from our membership, a testament to the strength and vibrancy of Scotland’s travel sector, which continues to flourish and adapt in an ever-evolving industry landscape.

The SPARKLE AWARDS are kindly sponsored by