Travel Operations Director

Recruitment Avenue; London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic Travel Operations Director to lead their travel division. This role offers the chance to strategically grow and develop a core business function within a fast-paced environment. You will manage a dedicated team, cultivate client relationships, and ensure compliance with budgetary constraints while delivering exceptional service. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in travel management, a deep understanding of travel technology, and exceptional organizational skills. Join a forward-thinking company that values innovation and excellence in the travel sector.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience managing travel teams and knowledge of GDS is essential.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills are crucial for this role.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the travel division, ensuring high-quality service.
• Cultivate client relationships and oversee travel arrangements for events.

Skills

Team Management

GDS Knowledge

Travel Technology Understanding

Problem Solving

Organizational Skills

Client Relationship Management

Financial Management

Communication Skills

Education

Experience in Travel Management

Tools

GDS Integrations

Online Booking Tools

Profile Management Systems

Traveller Tracking Systems

Protas/Procon Solution

Job description

Travel Operations Director

Location: London

Our client a leading TMC are seeking an experienced and dynamic Business Travel Operations Director to lead, develop and grow their travel division which encompasses Group, Event and Corporate Travel. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of the travel industry, have exceptional organisational skills, and a proven track record of successfully managing and growing teams in the business travel sector.

You will have an opportunity to strategically grow and develop this core business function in a fast paced environment. You will also work closely with other business departments such as finance and events, as well as engaging directly with the leadership team to deliver on the company’s overarching strategy and objectives.

You will be required to manage and tackle business challenges, whether internal or external, by developing relationships and problem solving with the ultimate objective of delivering an unparalleled service to customers and clients.

Travel Operations Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Planning:

• Develop and implement strategic plans for the department in alignment with overall company goals.
• Identify growth opportunities, market trends, and potential partnerships to enhance the division’s performance.

Client Relationship Management:

• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with clients, understanding their unique requirements and delivering tailored solutions.
• Act as the main point of contact for key clients, addressing inquiries, providing updates, and ensuring client satisfaction.

Team Leadership:

• Lead a dedicated team of travel professionals, providing guidance, support, and mentorship.
• Foster a collaborative and high-performance culture within the division.

Event and Group Travel Coordination:

• Oversee the planning and execution of travel arrangements for events, conferences, and group trips.
• Collaborate with vendors, airlines, hotels, and other service providers to negotiate contracts and secure favourable terms.

Corporate Travel Management:

• Develop and implement efficient corporate travel policies and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with budgetary constraints and cost-saving measures while maintaining the quality of travel services.

Financial Management:

• Manage the budget for the division, monitoring expenses, and optimizing financial performance.
• Implement strategies to maximize revenue streams and achieve financial targets.

Quality Assurance:

• Implement quality control measures to ensure the highest standards in travel services.
• Conduct regular reviews and assessments of processes to identify areas for improvement and innovation.

Travel Operations Director Skills and attributes

• Extensive experience of managing travel teams
• Proven knowledge of a GDS is a must
• Strong understanding of travel technology, the environment and mechanics.

Including but not limited to:

• GDS Integrations
• Online Booking Tools
• Profile Management Systems
• Scripting
• Traveller Tracking Systems
• Management & Client Reporting
• Out of Hours
• Previous experience improving efficiencies and increasing profitability of a travel team or department.
• Strong ability to create new processes and procedures to improve department efficiencies and overall profitability.
• Extensive understanding of airline, hotel, and other travel supplier networks
• Business plan input showcasing current client opportunities, new opportunities, potential risks, process development to assist with division strategy to execute a company growth plan
• Financial experience working on AP/AR processes and monthly reconciliation. Travel backend and mid-office experience desired, preferably Protas/Procon Solution.
• Providing support with forecasting and revenue projections.
• Ensuring consistency of company standards internally and externally enhancing the brand.
• Demonstrate outstanding time management, problem solving and organisational skills.
• Deliver processes to ensure the department provides a great customer experience.
• Line management experience of small to medium teams.
• Strong communication skills both written and verbal.
• Ability to work independently with confidence, or as part of a team.
• Quick learning, able to adapt to new and an ever-changing environment.
• Strong work ethic and team player attitude, with strong independent initiative.
• Fluency in English is essential and proficiency in other languages is a bonus.