Industry Leaders to Know: Gretel Puisens

Pri Mills
May 29
2 min read

From Travel Advisor to Industry Advocate at TBO Australia

We caught up with Gretel Puisens, Head of New Business – Australia at TBO, to learn more about her unique journey in travel—from frontline advisor to driving growth for one of the world’s most powerful B2B travel platforms.

With a background in communications and fundraising, Gretel entered the travel industry in 2010, expecting a temporary detour. But what began as a one-year break quickly transformed into a career she fell in love with.

“I loved to travel, and what I thought would be a cruisy 12-month detour quickly became something much more meaningful—and permanent.”

Gretel, Head of New Business, TBO Australia

A Passion That Turned Into Purpose

Gretel found herself immersed in the world of travel advising—mastering booking systems, learning destinations, and connecting with clients in deeply personal ways.

“The team became like family, the work became my business, and planning travel became a source of inspiration and creativity,” she reflects.

For over a decade, she thrived in the fast-paced environment of travel, developing a deep understanding of what clients want and what advisors need to succeed.

Growth Through Disruption

When the pandemic reshaped the industry, Gretel embraced the opportunity to explore new sectors and leadership roles. She soon realised the skills she’d developed—resilience, adaptability, commercial thinking—were highly transferable and valuable in broader operational contexts.

Today, she brings that blend of heart and business strategy to her current role at TBO, where she’s leading the company’s expansion across Australia.

Leading TBO’s Vision in Australia

As Head of New Business – Australia, Gretel is proud to be introducing TBO’s AI-powered booking portal to local advisors—offering smarter tools, greater efficiency, and access to global buying power.

“I’m still part of that journey to joy,” she says.“Now I get to support travel advisors by giving them the tools and support they need to create unforgettable experiences for their clients.”

With a fantastic local team and a strong commitment to partnerships, TBO is focused on building meaningful, long-term relationships within the Australian travel community.

Looking Ahead to 2025

Gretel believes the future of the industry lies in empowering advisors with the right resources—seamless technology, competitive rates, and genuine supplier support.

“In 2025, the most valuable thing we can offer travel advisors is efficiency, access, and partnership,” she says. “At TBO, we’re proud to deliver all three—and more.”

She’s looking forward to connecting with industry peers and partners at TADA 2025, where TBO will be on the ground to support the agent community.

A Leader With Heart

Gretel’s journey is a powerful example of what’s possible when passion and purpose collide. Her ability to adapt, lead, and stay grounded in what truly matters—helping others find joy through travel—continues to shape her impact in the industry.

Whether she’s launching a new booking tool or sharing insights over a coffee, Gretel leads with authenticity, generosity, and drive—and the travel community is stronger for it.