In Good Company: Huw Tuckett on Curiosity, Connection, and the Pulse of Global Incentives

There’s a quiet confidence about Huw Tuckett. As the Executive Director of euromic, he leads a network of some of the most seasoned DMC professionals in the world, yet he speaks about his colleagues with admiration, not authority. He’s worked in dozens of countries, helmed programs in some of the most complex markets, and weathered one of the most difficult chapters in the industry’s history. But what stands out most is his genuine love for the people behind it all.

In this edition of In Good Company, Huw opens up about the connections that shaped his career, the resilience required to lead through uncertainty, and why authenticity can’t be faked, especially in the business of culture.

Euromic represents some of the most established DMCs in the world. What’s one story that captures the spirit of that network?

We have a great spirit in the network, and I am honoured to work with some of the most amazing DMC professionals. Every year our annual AGM moves around the world, and every year I’m inspired by the creativity and commitment of our host DMCs in whichever country it is to ensure our members have the best experience possible. It’s a passionate and inspiring response which never fails to impress me.

You’ve led programs in dozens of countries. What’s one destination that still challenges or surprises you, no matter how often you visit?

That’s a tough one, but if I have to choose, I’d say India. It’s so large and diverse. India both challenges and surprises me in equal measure.

What inspired you to step into this side of the industry, and what keeps you committed to it?

Simple: the people. I’ve always maintained the incentive travel industry has some of the best people in it. Our industry is all about human connections on so many levels, and the ever-pressing need to do something different, improve, and do things differently keeps it fresh and invigorating.

You’re known for building relationships with intention. What’s one connection that changed the course of your career?

Many, many years ago I attended a SITE conference and met Steve O’Malley from Maritz. What I learned from him in five minutes gave me a whole different view on the industry and my business at the time. His humility and willingness as a seasoned professional to share his knowledge and experience with me was inspiring.

What is a trend or shift in global events that you’re watching closely right now?

Like most others in the industry, I’m intrigued to see how A.I. will affect us all. Is our industry too complex and human-dependent to be outsourced to A.I.?

What does “authentic” service look like to you, especially when planners are trusting you with culturally immersive experiences?

The definition of authentic is being real or genuine. I think we all know when something is ‘put on or fake’—including service. Most incentive professionals I meet and work with, though, are genuinely passionate about their destinations and jobs, which translates into a real desire to create something special or delight clients. Authenticity comes from people. Working with the right people makes all the difference.

Think back to a moment that tested your leadership. What did it teach you?

Covid was scary for all of us and taught me many lessons, but one of the biggest leadership lessons I learned was to not make decisions in haste, to avoid knee-jerk reactions, read the room, take time to consider all points of view, sleep on it, and then make the call and stick to it.

If you could give one piece of advice to the next generation of DMC leaders, what would it be?

Understand the bigger picture of incentive travel as a motivational tool—how organisations leverage it to improve and recognise performance and how powerful it can be when done well.

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Euromic connects planners to the most trusted and experienced DMCs around the world. Their local knowledge, high standards, and collaborative spirit make them a go-to partner for unforgettable group experiences. Explore the network at euromic.com

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