Travel Buyer II

: NOTE: While this position can sit virtual, preference will be given to candidates in the surrounding St. Louis area. Provides recommendations and consultation to account team and/or client regarding hotels, convention centers and destinations based on client specifications. Manages hotel, CVB and convention center communication from initial RFP request through win/loss notification and contract completion. Implements overall program negotiation strategy to achieve the most favorable terms to support the specific needs of the client. Scope Negotiates and contracts upwards of 200 hotels for programs worldwide annually. Manages approximately 15-40 files (programs) at any given time. Team collectively negotiates and contracts 550,000 hotel room nights equating to over $150,000,000 in hotel room revenues annually. Responsible for targeting a 20-30% cost savings benchmark across portfolio, equating to $35,000,000 in cost savings across entire team in CY2012. Executes on strategies to support and grow the delivery of a supplier revenue stream of approximately $2-3 million annually. May have direct reports. Reporting and Working Relationships Reports to Senior Director, Sourcing. Works closely with Supplier Relations, Account Executives/Managers, Proposal Development and Project Managers in addition to Clients, Hotels, and Convention Centers. Primary Responsibilities

• 50%

Researches destination and hotel options based on client program criteria. Collaborates with team to develop program and profit/negotiation strategy prior to booking/negotiation activity. Secures appropriate room block and pricing from hotel and convention centers during presentation development. Implements overall program negotiation strategy to achieve best price and/or enhancement consideration with suppliers, while supporting the specific needs of the client. Manages workload to ensure timely deliverables; communicates effectively with team members on all issues pertaining to client program activity. Utilizes internal and external systems.

• 50%

Confirms critical program components with supplier and team at time of sale. Responsible for contract compliance of supplier contracts through signature. Participates in major program re-negotiations or cancellation negotiations and contract interpretation, as required. Supports Supplier Relations initiatives with hotel recommendations and complies with MSP² department and Legal directives/templates. Develops and fosters effective and positive working relationships with industry partners. Serves as Subject Matter Expert on defined area/topic or project work for department and/or overall company. Qualifications 1. College degree or equivalent experience 2. Minimum of 3+ years of Maritz or industry experience preferred in hotel sales/service of meeting planning 3. Proven negotiations skills and prior successful experience working with clients, suppliers, problem resolution and risk mitigation 4. Ability to handle fluctuations in workload and multitask while meeting project deadlines 5. Strategic thinker and negotiator that drives buying recommendations towards opportunities that support customers program and savings initiatives 6. Strong knowledge of domestic and international hotels and destinations. 7. Strong organization skills and oral and written communication skills. Proficient at Microsoft Office Suite, especially Word, Excel, and PowerPoint 8. Ability to travel by airplane, boat, rail and/or car up to 10% of the time DISCLAIMER: This 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 . 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 View phone number on us.edajobs.com or by sending an email to View email address on us.edajobs.com .