Head of Supplier Relations

SUMMARY:
We are seeking an experienced and strategic Head of Supplier Relations to join our Global Supplier Management team. In this pivotal role, you will be responsible for negotiating, developing, and managing preferred supplier-related programs across air, hotel, and other travel services. Your efforts will drive significant cost savings and revenue opportunities, enhancing both our client offerings and supplier partnerships.

POSITION INFO:
Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee all trade supplier-related activities, including contract negotiation, analysis, and implementation.
• Ensure regional supplier relationships deliver optimal benefits, focusing on commissions, marketing agreements, and value-added services.
• Provide key industry insights to upper management and internal teams, ensuring clients receive exceptional service.
• Serve as the industry expert, advising internal teams on value-driven solutions aligned with current market trends.
• Collaborate with global and regional leadership to develop strategies for maximizing supplier value.
• Engage with preferred suppliers to negotiate pricing, performance, and service delivery, providing regular feedback to the company.
• Work with key stakeholders to explore innovative opportunities, extracting maximum value from trade suppliers.
• Establish a transparent reporting framework for real-time supplier performance evaluation.
• Support Client Services in meeting spend thresholds with key suppliers, ensuring internal compliance.
• Communicate industry developments that could present opportunities or challenges to relevant departments.
• Participate in business development activities with key and prospective clients as needed.
• Enhance GDS and Net fare knowledge within regional Client Service teams, maintaining and negotiating net fare content.

• Graduate degree in Business, Finance, or a related field.
• Minimum of five years of experience in the travel industry, with a focus on Supplier Management, Client Services, or related areas.
• Strong negotiation skills and a proven track record in managing supplier relationships.
• Ability to analyse complex contracts and develop strategies aligned with business objectives.