Country Manager, UK

MindMerge; City Of London; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading airline consultancy is seeking a Country Manager for the United Kingdom to provide strategic leadership and oversee operational management. The role involves developing sales strategies, ensuring regulatory compliance, and leading a high-performing team. Candidates should have substantial experience in the airline industry and a strong background in sales and market development. This position offers a chance to make a significant impact in a dynamic market.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years in the airline or travel industry, including at least 5 years in a senior management role.
• Strong understanding of the aviation market, including business culture and regulatory environment.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership across the UK market.
• Lead sales and business development initiatives to achieve targets.
• Ensure compliance with aviation safety and environmental standards.
• Develop and nurture relationships with key stakeholders.

Skills

Sales leadership

Market strategy development

Team leadership

Financial management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or related field

MBA or relevant postgraduate qualification

Job description

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Role Purpose

The Country Manager for the United Kingdom is responsible for providing strategic leadership, overseeing operational management, and driving overall business performance within the United Kingdom market. This role entails developing and executing sales strategies, expanding market share, ensuring full compliance with regulatory requirements, and enhancing customer satisfaction. The position also involves leading and developing a high-performing team, fostering strategic partnerships, and representing the airline across key industry and stakeholder forums.

Key Accountability

Strategic Leadership & Market Development:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive market strategy for the United Kingdom aligned with the overall business goals and objectives of the airlines.

• Identify opportunities for revenue growth and market expansion, including new routes, partnerships, and customer segments.
• Conduct market research and analysis to understand the competitive landscape and adjust strategies accordingly.
• Ensure the airline's brand is well-positioned and promoted across all channels in the UK.

Sales & Business Development:

• Lead the sales team to achieve or exceed sales targets, focusing on passenger services.
• Develop and nurture relationships with key corporate clients, travel agencies, and other stakeholders.
• Establish and maintain strategic partnerships with industry stakeholders, including airports, tourism boards, and other airlines.
• Oversee contract negotiations with partners, suppliers, and service providers to ensure favorable terms.

Operational Management:

• Ensure high standards of service delivery across all customer touchpoints in the UK.
• Manage the operational budget effectively, focusing on cost control and efficiency improvements.
• Ensure all operations comply with local and European regulations, including aviation safety, security, and environmental standards.
• Lead the response to any operational disruptions or crises within the region, ensuring effective communication and resolution.

Team Leadership & Development:

• Lead, motivate, and develop a diverse team, fostering a culture of excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Identify talent needs, recruit, and retain high-performing individuals. Provide training and development opportunities to enhance skills and career growth.
• Set clear performance goals, regularly review progress, and provide feedback and coaching to team members.

Financial Management:

• Prepare and manage the budget for the region, ensuring alignment with the airline's financial objectives.
• Provide regular financial and operational reports to senior management, highlighting achievements, challenges, and recommendations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Aviation Management, Economics, Marketing, or a related field; an MBA or relevant postgraduate qualification is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 8 years in the airline or travel industry, including at least 5 years in a senior management role, with experience in Commercial or Sales activities.
• Strong understanding of the aviation market, including business culture, regulatory environment, and market trends.
• Proven track record in achieving sales targets and managing sales pipelines effectively.