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To function as the primary client liaison and lead for assigned programs. Negotiates critical program components based on knowledge of client requirements from initial request through contract completion and turnover; this includes recommending supplier and destinations options and solutions. Proactively negotiates prices and contracts and creates reasonable preliminary budgets. Communicates information relative to travel program operations with Procurement Team and suppliers on a timely basis. Follows standard operating procedures for all sourcing activity. Leads and mentors other Sourcing Managers/Coordinators.
Scope
Negotiates and contracts between 100 to 200 programs worldwide on an annual basis, however, the scope of this position is dependent upon assigned account/programs and may vary from client to client.
Reporting and Working Relationships
Reports to Operations Director or Operations Manager. Works with clients and third party suppliers. Interacts with internal departments including, but not limited to, Sourcing Coordinators, Sourcing Managers, Senior Sourcing Managers, Meeting Coordinators, Meeting Managers, Senior Meeting Managers, Project Account Managers, Attendee Management, Creative Department, Web Producers, Industry Relations, Project Accounting, Account Management, Account Executives, and Program Operations. No direct reports. Negotiates prices and contracts to create reasonable preliminary budgets.
Primary Responsibilities
30% - FINANCIAL AND REPORTING RESPONSIBILITY:
Advises Meeting Management Team and customer of initial deposit requirement and secures payment. Responsible for accurate program forecasting and updating business management systems with accurate financial and estimated budget and cost savings information as needed. Maintains tracking information of all tentative, sold, and canceled programs in business program management system. Maintains accurate records, system input, and complete file management. Works with leader to forecast overall program financials. Monitors foreign exchange rates for sharp fluctuations which may impact the budget. Assists in review of other Sourcing Manager budgets.
25% - PROCESS MANAGEMENT:
Reviews meeting request information and conducts meeting qualification call with client. Develops and implements program and profit/negotiation strategy to achieve best price and/or enhancement consideration with suppliers, while supporting the specific needs of the client. Proactively gathers all the information necessary to properly source and place an event on behalf of a client, including standard availability grids from designated technology tool. Initiates RFP process to secure appropriate room blocks, logistical event needs, and pricing from hotels and other suppliers. Reviews all supplier contracts prior to finalization, ensuring both program specific and generic terms and conditions are accurate and legally protective of both Maritz and the client, including attrition dates, cancellation policies, etc. Provides supplier with all appropriate documentation at sale notification including itinerary, supplier contracts, etc.
25% - LEADERSHIP AND RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT:
Provides leadership to team and promotes positive team environment as a positive role model. Day to day client contact, works closely with client to ensure program objectives are addressed. Advises team on preferred hotels, and helps direct decisions to those hotels participating in the Preferred Program. Conducts regularly scheduled status meetings with client and stakeholders. Provides negotiation expertise to team members. Mentor Sourcing Managers and Sourcing Coordinators showing best practice approaches due to experience and knowledge. Lead other Sourcing Managers and Sourcing Coordinators regarding daily inquiries.
20% - OTHER:
Works on special projects as assigned by the Director or Operations Manager or Project Account Manager. May require travel to destinations worldwide, in support of client site inspections and/or program operations. There is an inherent risk associated with all travel, often as a result of extraordinary circumstances. Therefore, during an emergency, it is your duty to provide the necessary guidance and leadership, and to promote the safety of the client, travel participants and other Maritz employees by implementing or supporting prescribed crisis procedures. Keep abreast of industry standards and trends related to responsibilities.
Qualifications
College degree preferred.
Must have medical/pharma knowledge, HMCC designation
Minimum of five to seven years of experience in project, event or meeting management, at least 4 of which are in procurement required.
Proven negotiation skills. Extensive domestic destination knowledge required, international preferred. Knowledge of travel supplier operations, overall capabilities/range of services. Program management system experience preferred, especially with an online sourcing tool. Operations experience in hospitality industry or equivalent a plus.
Prior successful experience in developing and maintaining key client and supplier relationships. Strong knowledge of program/event management and budget maintenance. Proven aptitude for technology and/or software solutions and analytical skills required. Prior experience in team leadership and/or mentoring experiences a plus.
CMP designation a plus.
Ability to travel by airplane, boat, rail and/or car up to 30% of the time.
DISCLAIMER: This job description is designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by associates within this classification. It is not designed to confirm or be interpreted as a comprehensive summary of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of associates assigned to this job.
Maritz offers a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, 401k, tuition reimbursement, paid time off, and more! Part-time employees may qualify for medical, 401k, and paid time off depending on total hours worked. View all details at www.MaritzBenefits.com.
Maritz will only employ applicants who have authorization to work permanently in the U.S. This is not a position for which sponsorship will be provided. Those who need sponsorship for work authorization now or in the future are not eligible for hire. No calls or agencies please.
Maritz is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status. We are committed to providing a workplace free of any discrimination or harassment. If you have a disability and are having difficulty accessing or using this website to apply for a position, you can request help by calling 1-636-827-0335 or by sending an email to peopleanddevelopment@maritz.com.