Primary Purpose: The Senior Product Manager will play a key role in driving the growth of the DMC offering by managing and expanding our third-party product portfolio. This position is crucial for supporting business objectives through the coordination and development of relationships between the Sales team, Reservation Managers, Travel Designers, and third-party suppliers.
The role focuses on initiating, growing, and enhancing the supplier portfolio while generating revenue.
Key Responsibilities: Supplier Relations & Negotiations: Manage negotiations for rates, margins, overrides, and terms with strategic and preferred third-party suppliers.Supplier Portfolio Management: Define and maintain the strategic and preferred supplier categories.Relationship Building: Establish and nurture strong relationships with key suppliers through regular meetings and participation in trade shows (both online and in-person).Data Management: Update and maintain supplier information in the CRM and collaborate with the Rates Loading Department to ensure accurate rate updates.Product Sourcing & Development: Research, source, and evaluate special interest products and new offerings.Event Planning: Assist in organizing familiarization trips, presentations, and workshops.Market Intelligence: Analyze competitor offerings and communicate findings to management.Strategy Development: Develop and execute on 3rd party supplier strategy for the allocated region in alignment with the company's broader strategic goals, and track progress.Issue Resolution: Work closely with the Travel Analyst team to investigate and resolve queries, complaints, and feedback from guests, agents, and internal teams.Candidate Profile: Qualifications: Matric with Mathematics (minimum standard grade or above).Tertiary qualification in Travel & Tourism or Hospitality.Experience: 7-10 years' experience in the travel and tourism industry, with specific experience in East Africa and Southern African product development or operations.Familiarity with working with travel agents.Extensive product knowledge of East and Southern Africa.Proficiency in Microsoft Office, email, and internet.Experience with TourPlan, ResRequest, Xero, Zoho, or similar booking/operating systems is advantageous.Strong command of the English language (written and verbal).Personal Attributes: Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.Creative, organized, and detail-oriented.Ability to work efficiently under pressure without sacrificing accuracy.Strong prioritization and time management skills.Valid passport and willingness to travel as needed.A team player with the ability to collaborate across departments.Consistently high standard of work quality, service, and results-driven focus.Key Skills & Competencies: Decision-Making: Sound judgment with the ability to make informed decisions.Strategic & Tactical Thinking: Ability to strategize effectively and implement plans.Financial Acumen: Capable of interpreting financial statements, performing calculations, and managing budgets.Interpersonal Skills: Strong diplomacy and communication abilities, with the capability to engage with internal and external stakeholders effectively.Drive & Performance: A humble yet driven individual with a proven track record of success.Team Leadership: Proven ability to build, develop, and lead high-performing teams.Adaptability & Flexibility: Able to manage periods of high demand and work on weekends when needed.Passion for the Industry: Positive attitude, innovative thinking, and a passion for the travel and tourism industry.Self-Motivation & Independence: Highly self-motivated, with the ability to work independently and in teams.Organizational Skills: Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with a commitment to personal presentation.
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