Work-life balance: Anna Perrott, Panache Cruises

Anna Perrott, head of supplier relations at Panache Cruises, on building relationships, competitive hockey and expedition cruising

I get up at… 6am – there are no lie in’s with a one year old in the house! Normally our mornings consist of breakfast, Hey Duggee and coffee for mum. Throw on some clothes and drop off at nursery. Then my work day begins at 8am.

My job entails… All sorts. I work extremely closely with all our luxury, river, expedition and yacht suppliers. I could be working on our commercial agreements, looking at different marketing opportunities, arranging training for our amazing sales team and much more. I ensure that we are obtaining the best rates for our customers, as well as correct product offering.

I got here by… Building relationships – it’s not what you know it’s who you know… and hard work! We work in such an amazing industry where it is relatively small so relationships are key. There’s a fine balance between being ‘fun’ Anna onboard ships, to being able to sit round a table and negotiate commercial deals.

I stay motivated by… A love for the industry. Ever since the first time I stepped foot on my first ship Celebrity Eclipse, I have been hooked. I love that there is a ship for everyone no matter who you are, and it’s an ever-changing industry. We have come so far in the time I have been in the industry and it’s exciting to think where it could go.

I destress by… Playing sport. I play hockey for a Midlands ladies team who are on the run for our third promotion, so what was supposed to be a fun activity has now turned competitive – but I love it. In the summer I play a lot of golf (when I can). I try to spend as much time as I can with my family, whether that’s dog walks or bbq’s in the garden. It’s really important to have that home-life balance.

My last cruise was… Star Legend. I used to work for Windstar and I adore them! Small yacht cruising really is something special – nothing is too much hassle. The watersports platform was my highlight – it’s so much fun to snorkel off the back of the ship or grab a paddle board.

The cruise line to watch is… There is so much happening with everyone! Personally I’m excited by expedition cruising and going to destinations that not many people have visited before. Also it’s great for new to cruise – most people would want to visit Antarctica or the Galapagos, but would have never thought of a cruise before. Once they’re onboard they understand how cruising works, and are more likely to book something again.