Overview

Reporting to the Manager, Product Development, Travel and Groups, the Travel Consultant specializes in in corporate incentive and group travel. They are responsible for designing, planning, and executing customized travel programs tailored to meet the unique needs of our Business Membership clients.

The Travel Consultant’s expertise in travel logistics, vendor negotiations, and budget management ensures seamless, high-quality travel experiences that drive client satisfaction and business growth. They establish and maintain strong partnerships with Business Membership clients, ensuring a deep understanding of their travel needs and long-term business objectives. Their ability to build trust and provide tailored travel solutions drives customer loyalty and repeat business.

The Travel Consultant is responsible for coordinating and executing both virtual and in-person Business Membership travel events, including trade shows, client meetings, and incentive travel programs. Their expertise in event planning and logistics ensures smooth and successful travel experiences that align with client goals.

Additionally, the Travel Consultant collaborates with internal teams to develop innovative travel solutions, leverage emerging travel technologies, and contributes to marketing efforts to expand CAA’s incentive travel offerings.

Responsibilities

Design and Plan Incentive Travel Programs:

• Collaborate with Business Members to understand their goals and objectives and create customized travel itineraries that align with their needs.
• Research destinations, venues, and unique experiences to ensure a high-quality program tailored to client requirements.
• Coordinate with internal stakeholders to develop exclusive travel packages.
• Handle all aspects of travel arrangements, including flights, accommodations, transportation, and activities.
• Coordinate logistics to optimize travel efficiency and comfort for clients.
• Provide contingency plans for unexpected travel disruptions.

Member Relationship Management:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with Business Membership clients, ensuring high levels of satisfaction and repeat business.
• Coordinate and execute virtual and in-person Business Member company travel events, including trade shows, client meetings, and incentive travel programs
• Regularly communicate with clients to assess their needs, provide travel recommendations, and ensure a seamless travel experience.
• Offer ongoing support and follow-up after trips to gather feedback and enhance future services.
• In-destination group hosting duties where required.

Vendor Coordination:

• Negotiate group-related contracts and manage relationships with hotels, airlines, tour operators, and other travel service providers.
• Evaluate vendor group performance, secure competitive group pricing, and establish long-term partnerships to enhance service offerings.
• Ensure service agreements align with Business Membership client policies and client expectations.

Budget Management:

• Develop and manage budgets for incentive travel programs, ensuring cost-effectiveness while delivering high-quality experiences.
• Track expenses, analyze financial reports, and recommend cost-saving strategies without compromising quality.
• Provide clients with transparent pricing breakdowns.

On-Site Coordination:

• Provide on-site support during incentive trips to ensure smooth execution and address any issues that arise where necessary.
• Act as the primary point of contact for clients and vendors, resolving last-minute concerns and ensuring the highest level of service.
• Oversee group activities and ensure all planned elements run seamlessly.

Marketing and Promotion:

• Assist in the development of marketing materials and promotional campaigns to attract new clients and retain existing ones.
• Work closely with the marketing team to create compelling content, promotional offers, and event materials that showcase incentive travel programs.

Reporting and Analysis:

• Prepare detailed reports on program outcomes, key performance metrics, and client feedback to continuously improve service offerings.
• Conduct post-trip evaluations to assess program effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.
• Provide data-driven insights to enhance future travel planning.

Travel Technology Applications:

• Work with Business Member clients to secure and utilize travel technology applications to support incentive trips.
• Provide training and support on booking platforms, mobile travel apps, and digital itinerary management tools to enhance the client experience.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Partner with internal teams, including marketing and business development, to enhance travel offerings and drive incentive travel growth.
• Coordinate with sales and business development teams to identify new Business Membership clients, develop proposals, and present tailored incentive travel solutions.
• Engage with customer service teams to address inquiries and ensure exceptional client support.

Group Travel Program Development (as required):

• Work alongside Manager, Product Development, Travel and Groups and Group Travel Specialist to craft and develop CAANEO’s wholesale group travel program, offering innovative and captivating travel experiences for customers.

Requirements

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and Experience:

• Post-Secondary degree/diploma in Hospitality, Tourism, Business, or a related field
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in corporate travel, with a focus on incentive travel programs.
• Experience in group travel planning, vendor negotiations, and budget management.
• Certifications: TICO certification required; CITC CTC designation preferred.
• Additional certifications in travel management or corporate travel planning are an advantage
• Proficiency in travel booking systems and software, such as GDS (Global Distribution Systems) and online booking platforms.

Skills:

• Project Management & Organization: Strong ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring deadlines are met with attention to detail.
• Communication & Relationship Building: Excellent interpersonal skills to foster strong relationships with business clients, vendors, and internal teams.
• Negotiation & Vendor Management: Ability to secure the best rates and contracts with suppliers while maintaining high-quality standards.
• Teamwork & Independence: Capable of working independently while also collaborating effectively within cross-functional teams.
• Problem-Solving & Adaptability: Creative problem-solving abilities to handle unexpected challenges and provide top-tier client service.
• Analytical & Reporting Skills: Strong ability to assess program success, interpret data, and recommend process improvements.
• Customer Service Excellence: A proactive approach to meeting client needs and exceeding expectations through tailored travel solutions.

Additional Requirements:

• Flexible work hours, including evenings and weekends (as required).
• A valid G driver’s license and Driver’s Abstract acceptable for corporate vehicle insurance policies.
• Ability to travel throughout the CAA North & East Ontario territory to meet with Business Member clients.
• Ability to travel in-destination to host corporate travel events, as well as participation in trade shows and consumer events to promote CAA Travel.

Compensation

• Salary: $55,000 - $60,000
• Generous Commission Structure
• Health & Dental Benefits
• 3 Weeks Vacation
• CAA Membership

Must be legally entitled to work in Canada

Employment is contingent on a successful Criminal Background Check and references.

Job applicants who have disabilities shall be provided with reasonable accommodation throughout the recruiting process