MANAGER – SALES & PARTNERSHIPS (TRAVEL TRADE)

Position Overview

We are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Manager – Sales & Partnerships (Travel Trade) to spearhead revenue generation and strategic partnerships within the travel trade ecosystem in Jeddah. This pivotal role is designed for a seasoned professional with a robust background in travel trade sales, a well-established network of industry contacts, and a deep understanding of the local and regional market dynamics. The ideal candidate will thrive in a high-visibility, hands-on commercial environment where their expertise directly contributes to the company’s growth objectives. While prior experience in airport services or aviation-adjacent sectors is advantageous, it is not a prerequisite for success in this role.

Key Responsibilities

The Manager – Sales & Partnerships (Travel Trade) will be responsible for driving revenue growth through targeted sales initiatives and cultivating long-term partnerships with key stakeholders across the travel trade landscape. The role encompasses the full spectrum of the sales cycle, from prospecting and pitching to negotiating contracts and onboarding partners. Specific responsibilities include:

• Revenue Growth & Partnership Development: Identify and capitalize on new business opportunities within the travel trade ecosystem, converting them into sustainable partnerships that align with the company’s strategic goals.
• End-to-End Sales Cycle Management: Own the entire sales process, including prospecting, presenting tailored solutions, conducting commercial negotiations, finalizing contracts, and ensuring seamless partner onboarding.
• Account Management & Relationship Building: Cultivate and maintain strong, mutually beneficial relationships with tour operators, travel agents, hotels, MICE organizers, wholesalers, Destination Management Companies (DMCs), and corporate clients. Serve as the primary point of contact for all partner-related matters.
• Market Intelligence & Competitive Analysis: Stay abreast of industry trends, competitive dynamics, and emerging opportunities within the KSA travel trade landscape, particularly in the context of religious travel demand, Hajj, and Umrah-related travel.
• Industry Representation & Networking: Represent the company at high-impact industry events, trade shows, partner meetings, and networking forums to enhance brand visibility and forge new alliances.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with internal teams, including product development, marketing, operations, and finance, to ensure seamless partner integration and execution of joint initiatives.
• Performance Tracking & Target Achievement: Meet and exceed assigned revenue targets while contributing to the broader commercial growth objectives of the organization.

Qualifications & Experience

To excel in this role, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Industry Experience: A minimum of 7–10 years of progressive experience in sales, business development, or partnerships within the travel trade industry, with a proven track record of selling to tour operators, travel agents, hotels, MICE organizers, wholesalers, and DMCs.
• Local Market Expertise: A strong existing network and deep relationships within the Jeddah and KSA travel trade are mandatory. Familiarity with the religious travel ecosystem, including Hajj and Umrah, is highly desirable.
• Commercial Acumen: Demonstrated success in closing complex commercial deals and managing strategic accounts, with a solid grasp of travel distribution models and trade economics.
• Regional Mobility: Must be based in Jeddah or KSA with the legal right to work and the ability to travel locally and regionally as required by the role.
• Language Proficiency: Fluency in both Arabic and English is essential to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders and navigate the regional market.
• Preferred Qualifications: Prior experience in airport services, aviation, or the broader airport ecosystem will be considered a strong advantage.

About Plaza Premium Group

At Plaza Premium Group, we are united by a shared passion for Making Travel Better. As a global leader in airport hospitality, we operate across four core business segments: airport lounges, airport terminal hotels, airport meet & greet services, and airport dining concepts. With a presence in over 200 locations across more than 60 international airports worldwide, we deliver exceptional experiences to travelers and partners alike. Our innovative solutions are trusted by leading airlines, alliances, and corporate clients globally, reflecting our commitment to excellence and customer-centricity.

We pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment where every team member is valued for their unique perspectives and contributions. As part of the #PPGFamily, you will have the opportunity to work alongside colleagues from diverse backgrounds, united by a shared pride in our industry and a relentless drive to innovate.

Our Commitment to You

Plaza Premium Group is dedicated to creating a workplace where your talents are recognized and your growth is supported. We offer:

• A respectful and inclusive work environment that values your background and ideas.
• Collaborative leadership that prioritizes integrity and shared success.
• Opportunities to contribute to a global brand with a legacy of innovation and excellence.
• A dynamic and fast-paced industry that rewards passion, creativity, and customer-centric thinking.

If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for travel and a proven ability to drive commercial success, we invite you to join our team and help us redefine the future of airport hospitality.