Travel Program Category Manager: Strategic Sourcing

American Electric Power Co.; Columbus, Northern (OH, KY); Hybrid; USD 116,000 - 151,000; Full time

Job summary

American Electric Power Co. is seeking a Category Manager (Travel Program) in Columbus, OH to lead the travel program strategy and supplier engagements, aligning policies with business needs.

The role focuses on managing TMCs, negotiating contracts, and driving traveler satisfaction across a large multi-state organization. The ideal candidate has 5+ years in Supply Chain/Travel management, experience with travel tech platforms, and strong stakeholder engagement skills.

Qualifications

• Experience with travel management companies (TMCs) and travel tech platforms.
• Familiarity with SAP Concur, AmEx Global Travel, Navan or CWT.
• Experience leading travel technology implementations.
• Experience managing a travel program for a large, multi-state organization.
• Strong change management and stakeholder engagement capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Enhance traveler experience through communications, training initiatives, and responding to internal traveler inquiries.
• Develop, implement, and continuously improve the company's travel program, policies, and procedures to align with business objectives and traveler needs.
• Manage relationships and performance of travel management companies (TMCs), airlines, hotels, car rental providers, and other travel-related suppliers.
• Lead strategic sourcing, contract negotiations, and supplier review processes to optimize service levels, compliance, and total travel spend.

Skills

Travel management

Stakeholder engagement

Change management

Education

Bachelor degree in related field

Tools

SAP Concur

American Express Global Travel

Navan

CWT

Job description

American Electric Power Co. is seeking a Category Manager (Travel Program) in Columbus, OH to lead the travel program strategy and supplier engagements, aligning policies with business needs.

The role focuses on managing TMCs, negotiating contracts, and driving traveler satisfaction across a large multi-state organization. The ideal candidate has 5+ years in Supply Chain/Travel management, experience with travel tech platforms, and strong stakeholder engagement skills.