Business Development Specialist

This is a Full-time, 100% Remote Position - USA

ABOUT AVOYA

At Avoya Travel, we’re reimagining the way people plan and book vacations. Through our patented platform and business model, we connect travelers with travel experts to bring vacation dreams to life. With specialized brand and destination knowledge paired with exclusive deals and high-tech, high-touch customer service, Avoya is one of the largest and fastest growing travel companies in North America. Our number one goal is to enrich our lives through unique travel experiences.

Our team members are united in their enthusiasm for enriching the lives of others, passion for travel and exploration in their own lives, and commitment to achieve remarkable results. Avoya offers employees a comprehensive pay and benefits package, frequent learning and development events, flexible hybrid and remote work opportunities, generous travel incentives, and a work hard, play hard culture. With wellness and work/life balance at the forefront, Avoya Travel will empower you to flourish in the ultra-rewarding travel industry and most importantly HAVE FUN while doing it.

Avoya is seeking new talent to join our amazing team and seeks qualified candidates that thrive in innovative, collaborative environments.

ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY

Avoya Travel is hiring a full-time Business Development Specialist (Internal Position Title: Strategic Partnerships Specialist). 

We are seeking a talented Strategic Partnership Specialist to join our team in the travel industry. As a Strategic Partnerships Specialist, you will be responsible for developing and managing strategic partnerships with key players in the travel industry to drive business growth and enhance our company's brand presence. Your primary focus will be on partnerships that align with our strategic objectives. This role requires exceptional communication and negotiation skills, as well as a deep understanding of the travel industry landscape.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Identify and assess potential opportunities with strategic partners within the travel industry, including cruise lines, hotels, and tour operators.
• Monitor and evaluate the performance of assigned strategic partnerships, tracking key metrics, and providing regular reports to management.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams, including sales, marketing, product development, and operations, to align partnership initiatives and drive business growth.
• Negotiate partnership agreements, including terms, conditions, and financial arrangements, ensuring favorable terms for the company while maintaining mutually beneficial relationships.
• Build and nurture relationships with key decision-makers and stakeholders in potential supplier partner organizations to build upon strong partnerships.
• Participating in industry events, conferences, and trade shows to network, promote the company, and foster new partnership opportunities.
• Responsible for preparing agendas for supplier meetings as well as meeting recaps. 
• Accountable for company action items, streamlining communication, data analysis, negotiations, developing relationships, etc. 
• Independent Agency communication and support where needed.
• Collaborate with the marketing and sales teams to develop joint marketing campaigns and promotional activities with strategic partners.
• Assist with other tasks and/or special projects as required.

REQUIRED SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES

• Must have a team player attitude and willingness to assist in all areas and projects as needed.
• Demonstrate proactive thinking and awareness. 
• Must have excellent interpersonal and written skills.
• Ability to maintain high levels of attention to detail and strong time-management skills.
• Ability to prioritize daily tasks as well as re-prioritization of urgent tasks as needed.
• Demonstrate an analytical skill set and the ability to communicate clearly and directly.
• Must be highly organized with the ability to be flexible and adapt in a fast-paced changing environment. 
• Must be able to handle situations in a calm, professional manner and exhibit good judgment.
• Strong computer systems skills including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• HTML and reporting systems experience preferred but not required.
• Able to collaborate effectively with other employees and managers to ensure teamwork. 
• Ability to work a flexible schedule. 
• Employees who work from home (part-time, full-time, or on occasion) must be able to meet performance standards and department requirements in a productive and professional environment.
• This includes the ability to work with little or no distraction(s), consistent internet connectivity, regular and ongoing communication with supervisors(s), reliable childcare and/or eldercare (if applicable), and depending on the role, the ability to discuss and protect all confidential information (company or people related).
• Presents a professional and tidy appearance (virtually or in person) while conducting educational sessions, calls, and/or meetings (when cameras are on). 

EXPERIENCE AND/OR EDUCATION

• 2+ years of experience within a similar role.
• Completion of a four (4) year college degree in Business, Marketing, Communications is preferred but not required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• This is primarily a stationary position with prolonged periods of sitting and working from a computer (ability to type, read, review, write, etc.) for a full workday. 
• Travel can be up to 5%. 
• Professional appearance when attending events or facilitating sessions virtually or in-person. 
• May need to occasionally travel to home office or other locations for events as needed. 
• Ability to speak English clearly, in a friendly manner, and at an appropriate tone and volume over the company’s provided phone system, Microsoft Teams, or in person.