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 (url removed). All applications will be handled in strict confidence. Only suitable candidates will be contacted
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