JOB TITLE: Group Operations Specialist
DEPARTMENT: Operations Department
REPORTS TO: Operations Manager
Business Context:
With over 35 years of expertise, Operation Europe Ltd. is a trusted incoming tour operator specialising in customised special-interest group travel across Europe and the UK. Strong supplier partnerships and a reputation for quality enable us to deliver seamless, tailored travel experiences. We are now seeking a Group Operations Specialist to join our growing Operations team in our vibrant canal-side London office.
The Role:
As the Group Operations Specialist, you will play a key role in managing end-to-end travel operations, from bookings and reservations to itinerary coordination. The role requires strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to high-quality service. You will act as the primary point of contact for clients, providing professional support, whilst also building and maintaining strong supplier relationships worldwide. With a customer-focused mindset and strong communication skills, you will ensure seamless service delivery and occasionally travel for familiarisation (FAM) trips or supplier meetings. Flexibility to provide on-call support during peak travel seasons is also an important part of the role.
Key Responsibilities:
Booking & Reservations
* Manage end-to-end travel bookings, including flights, hotels, transportation, tours, and other services.
* Process bookings using the in-house reservation systems.
* Coordinate itineraries for individuals and groups.
Client Support & Communication
* Act as the primary contact for clients prior to, during, and post-travel.
* Handle client queries, amendments, cancellations, and special requests.
* Provide accurate and timely travel documentation e.g. tickets, vouchers, itineraries.
Supplier Coordination
* Liaise with local and global suppliers to confirm services.
* Secure competitive rates and monitor supplier performance.
* Maintain strong supplier relationships.
Operational Excellence
* Ensure efficient and high-quality service delivery.
* Monitor and update internal systems and client records accurately.
* Advise and assist clients whilst on tour.
Reporting & Administration
* Reconcile invoices.
* Support the finance team with payment processing.
Person Profile:
* Strong customer service orientation and problem-solving skills.
* Ability to manage time effectively and multi-task.
* Adaptable approach to changing priorities.
* Team player with a collaborative working style and effective communication skills.
* Confidence in decision-making
* Excellent communication skills in English both written and verbal; additional languages is a plus.
What you can expect:
* Competitive salary
* Monday to Friday working week, with Hybrid working arrangements (following probation).
* Generous bonus structure, eligibility following one year's service.
* Opportunities to attend FAM trips in Europe and to travel to client markets for business.
* A friendly, co-operative, and rewarding working environment