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Brand USA has launched its first-ever retail agent Ambassador Panel in Australia and New Zealand – a groundbreaking initiative for the organisation on a global scale.

Revealed at Brand USA’s New Zealand Travel Trade Expo in Auckland last night, the ‘Brand USA Ambassador Panel’ will provide 12 retail agents from Australia and New Zealand with the opportunity to become advocates for US travel. This 12-month programme is designed for passionate professionals keen to deepen their expertise, inspire others, and showcase the diverse travel experiences the USA has to offer.

The ‘Brand USA Ambassador Panel’ program will be supported by Air New Zealand as the exclusive airline partner, further strengthening the connection between the Australian and New Zealand travel community and the USA; which is a key market for the airline.

Malcolm Smith, Senior Vice President, Global Markets & Chief Trade and Product Development Officer at Brand USA said: “We are proud to be unveiling this global-first initiative for Brand USA in the Australian and New Zealand market. This program represents an incredible opportunity for the retail agent community, and we’re looking for 12 exceptional agents who are not just dreamers, but doers – excited about learning, sharing and growing in the travel industry. We look forward to seeing how agents showcase their enthusiasm and passion for the USA throughout the application process.”  

Jeremy O’Brien, Air New Zealand Chief Commercial Officer said: “Air New Zealand is thrilled to support the Brand USA Ambassador Panel program as airline partner. We’re proud to connect nine cities in Australia to five vibrant destinations in the USA, including New York.  The USA is an important and growing market for us, and this program will be an incredible opportunity for agents to experience not only some amazing destinations but also our Air New Zealand product and service.”

Whether it’s the stunning landscapes of the USA’s iconic national parks, the vibrant culture of its cities, or the mouthwatering culinary experiences, the USA is full of wonders just waiting to be explored. Brand USA invites driven and passionate retail agents who are ready to embrace this opportunity to apply for its ‘Ambassador Panel’.

As part of the panel, participants will play an essential role in the organisation’s mission to showcase the diversity of the USA. Chosen agents will engage with fellow travel enthusiasts, share insights, and provide valuable feedback on travel trends impacting the USA. Their contributions will help shape Australian and New Zealand training programs and initiatives, ensuring that the travel industry remains ahead of the curve.

In return for their dedication, appointees to the panel will have exclusive access to mentoring opportunities with insights from industry experts designed to enhance professional skills. They will also receive specialised training providing them with information on the latest travel trends and how to effectively sell the USA.

A unique familiarisation trip to experience the USA will be one of the highlights of the program, providing ambassadors with the opportunity to experience the U.S. from a new perspective.
Brand USA emphasises the importance of collaboration, and the ‘Ambassador Panel’ will create an environment where ideas are shared freely, support is readily available, and every participant is encouraged to thrive.

Applications for the ‘Brand USA Ambassador Panel’ are open and will close on Friday, 7 March 2025. The selected panel members will be announced in late March, and the program will officially begin on 2 April 2025.

Interested retail agents can complete the application form here, including examples that demonstrate their passion for the United States of America.