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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 with Procurement Team and suppliers on a timely basis, relative to travel program operations. Follows standard operating procedures for sourcing activity.
Scope
Negotiates and contracts between 80-100 programs on an annual basis, however, the scope of this position is dependent upon assigned account/programs and may vary from client to client.
No direct reports.
No budgetary responsibility.
Reporting and Working Relationships
Reports to Operations Director or Operations Manager. Working relationship 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.
Primary Responsibilities
30% PROCESS MANAGEMENT: Reviews meeting request with client. Utilizes meeting tools to research destinations and recommend appropriate sites. Maintains knowledge of destination options. Initiates RFP process to secure appropriate room blocks, logistical needs, and pricing from hotels and suppliers. Negotiates and confirms program components with supplier(s) and team, utilizing basic terms and conditions, and/or modifying pre-existing master policies to meet client requirements. Meets deadline providing availability grid based on standards, and review with client and team. Reviews all supplier contracts prior to finalization, ensuring both program specific and generic terms and conditions are accurate and legally protective of both MT and the client, including attrition dates, cancellation policies, etc. Uses appropriate authorization and addendum form to ensure consistency and accuracy.
30% FINANCIAL AND REPORTING RESPONSIBILITY: Advises Meeting Management Team and customer of initial deposit requirement and secures payment. Responsible for accurate budget entry and updating program management systems with accurate financial and estimated budget and cost savings. Maintains tracking information of all tentative, sold, and canceled programs in program management system. Maintains accurate records and complete file management as outlined in MT and client policies and procedures. Conducts final negotiations with selected suppliers for best pricing and concessions to meet savings and spend expectations. Provides supplier with all appropriate documentation at sale notification. Create meeting records in the designated meeting management system and completes all internal documentation for the program prior to turnover. May participate in program re-negotiations or cancellation negotiations.
20% RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT: Works closely with client to ensure program objectives are addressed, maintaining open line of communication with client to ensure understanding of expectations and client satisfaction. Maintains open and on-going communication with team regarding supplier utilization, key negotiations, performance and unique programming ideas. Advises team on preferred hotels and helps direct decisions to those hotels participating in the Preferred Program.
20% OTHER: Works on special projects, including implementation project, as assigned by the Director or Operations Manager or Project Account Manager. May require travel to in support of client site inspections. 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
Minimum of three to five years experience in event or meeting management, including budget maintenance.
Proven negotiation skills with hoteliers and other industry suppliers.
Understanding and knowledge of domestic hotels and destinations is required, , international preferred
Basic understanding of travel supplier operations, overall capabilities/range of services.
Program management system experience preferred, especially with an online sourcing tool.
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.
Understanding of and ability to effect win/win solutions while effectively handling multiple projects/demands.
College degree a plus.
Proven aptitude for technology and/or software solutions and analytical skills a plus.8. Ability to travel by airplane, boat, rail and/or car.
CMP designation a plus
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 [email protected] .
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