Maria joined Expedia Group in December 2015, and works in our Athens, Greece, office as an Associate Market Manager. What’s clear from meeting Maria is the passion she has for account management, and ensuring every interaction with the partners she works with leads to positive results, for partners, and for EG. This positive energy and output contributed to Maria, internally, being receiving the “Associate Market Manager of the Year” award for 2021 and 2023, in EMEA. Read on to find out more about Maria’s experience at EG so far, and what life is like as an Associate Market Manager here.

Maria Koumparda, Associate Market Manager, Athens, Greece

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Tell us about your team.

I work in the Greece, Cyprus, Bulgaria and East Adriatic Market Management Lodging team, and we are a passionate, positive, goal oriented, mission and data-driven team, who try to put ourselves in the shoes of partners & travellers to grow their business through our platform. Collaboration is at the heart of our work, and we regularly engage in discussions, brainstorming sessions, exchange ideas, address challenges, and ensure that our projects align with our values, and our mission: to power global travel for everyone, everywhere!

Tell us about your role.

I am currently an Associate Market Manager for regional and local chains in Greece. I oversee 14 local chains – approximately 310 properties, in different markets across Greece (mainly Santorini Island).
I am a positive, data & goal-oriented person and I am always seeking opportunities in each conversation with partners to set a strategy with them and grow their business, as well as ours.

As an Associate Market Manager at Expedia Group, my typical day can be dynamic and multifaceted, involving a mix of strategic planning, relationship management, data analysis, and communication. I am in contact with many local chains to hear their strategies and challenges, while at the same time I suggest products or solutions for them with EG. At the end of the day, I am trying to review my progress against key objectives by prioritizing tasks for the next day and ensuring that any urgent matters are addressed.

In addition, I am one of the ambassadors of Pride Athens, which is one our Inclusion Business Groups, with the aim to try to create a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies, and to promote awareness and acceptance.

I love my job, and what I am doing. This is why I try to enjoy every one of my conversations with partners and teammates, to try and achieve amazing results.

What is it like working in your local office? What do you like about it?

I feel a sense of belonging and excitement every time I step into the Expedia Group office in Athens.
Every day, I’m captivated by its modern design and amazing location. It also has many snacks! The vibrant atmosphere and collaborative spirit among colleagues truly inspires me. In addition, it also has amazing architecture, which creates an inspiring work environment that fuels the creativity and passion for what I do. I really appreciate face-to-face interactions, this fosters better communication but also helps build stronger relationships with my co-workers, and partners. It’s a nice feeling as people collaborate on projects and exchange ideas.

What are some of your interests outside of work?

One of my hobbies is photography! I really like capturing special moments, particularly when travelling. In the past I had and my own photography blog site. I enjoy travelling a lot, and truly appreciate getting to know more about the different culture you can experience and learn in each country. Outside of travelling, and photography, I used to play football. I don’t play as much now, but it’s still my favourite sport to watch with my friends, and with co-workers.

What is your proudest achievement at EG so far?

Fortunately, there are many achievements that I am proud of. Expedia Group is a company that helps you to go above and beyond. My proudest achievement at EG was when I was nominated for, and won, the “Associate Market Manager of the Year” award for 2021 and 2023 in EMEA. It was such an honour as I really love what I do!

Why would you recommend a career at Expedia Group?

Expedia Group’s culture is characterised by our commitment to innovation, collaboration, celebrating diversity, customer-centricity, continuous learning, and fun. It’s a culture that empowers employees to make a difference, grow their careers, and contribute to the company’s success while having a great time doing it. It’s easy to feel a sense of belonging at this company from day one! Whether you’re working in one of the offices around the world or collaborating with colleagues remotely, you’ll be part of a team that embraces collaboration, creativity, and continuous learning. This is why I would recommend a career at Expedia Group!

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