About the Role
A well-established London-based B2B tour operator specialising in group travel across Europe is seeking an experienced Purchasing Manager with a strong focus on hotel contracting and ground services in French-speaking territories.
This role is pivotal in ensuring cost-effective, high-quality accommodation and travel services for international group clients. The successful candidate will manage supplier relationships, negotiate hotel contracts, and support the smooth delivery of complex group itineraries.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead hotel contracting and purchasing activities for group travel programmes
* Negotiate rates, allocations, and terms with hotel suppliers across Europe (predominantly French-speaking territories)
* Build and maintain strong relationships with senior-level service providers
* Monitor availability, pricing, and supplier performance
* Analyse market trends to inform purchasing strategies
* Ensure purchasing activity aligns with budgets and company policies
* Maintain accurate procurement records and contracts
* Collaborate closely with operations, sales, and finance teams
* Support wider purchasing and operational needs as required
Skills & Experience Required
* Minimum 5 years' experience in travel, tourism, or hospitality
* Proven negotiation experience within the hotel industry
* Existing contacts within the hotel and tourism sector
* Strong organisational skills with the ability to meet tight deadlines
* Tenacious, results-driven approach with sound commercial judgement
* High level of attention to detail and strong problem-solving ability
* Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
* Fluent in English and French (additional languages an advantage)
* Confident IT skills, including Excel and Microsoft Office
* Minimum A-levels or equivalent
Personal Attributes
* Flexible team player willing to support other departments
* Comfortable working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
* Professional, proactive, and commercially minded
What's Offered
* Opportunity to join a respected and growing group travel specialist
* Competitive salary depending on experience
* Key role with autonomy and influence over purchasing strategy
* Long-term career progression as the business evolves
To Apply:
Please submit your CV (cover letter optional) to Michael@traveltraderecruitment.co.uk. All applications will be handled in strict confidence. Only suitable candidates will be contacted.
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