In the wake of the economy showing signs of recovery, the opening of the express rail link between Wuhan and Guangzhou, and the upcoming Shanghai Expo, Wing On Travel sees huge opportunities for growth and is planning a new hiring campaign.

"We understand that customers today want to experience more and are more willing to spend," says Yau Tik-wai, assistant general manager for HR and administration. "To make the most of this trend, we are developing a greater variety of tours and providing more luxury packages. Cruises and tours with special themes are also becoming more popular, so we need to increase manpower to arrange these services and deal with our customers."

The travel agency is looking for 70 people to fill management, frontline and back office positions. These include openings for a cruise manager, tour manager, outbound tour escorts and ticketing consultants.

To ensure a high quality of service and meet market needs, about half the vacancies will go to university graduates.

"A passion for travel is essential, especially where our tour escorts and travel consultants are concerned," Yau says. "Personality and attitude are also very important. Our staff must be pleasant, energetic and articulate."

Candidates should be willing to learn and interested in industry trends and news. Relevant work experience is an advantage but not a prerequisite.

"Applicants can indicate a preferred position according to their interests and personality," Yau says.