Regional Events and Travel Specialist, Asia Pacific

Regional Events and Travel Specialist, Asia Pacific Dedicated to a global financial services client, the Specialist is responsible for the management and coordination of a variety of components of hotel group and event related travel projects out of Asia Pacific. As a member of APAC travel team, the Specialist will work closely with client stakeholders and the global, travel team and will serve as a liaison between the client and supplier(s) for the duration of the event from planning to completion. The Specialist builds and maintains stakeholders’ relationships, providing value added guidance and support whilst adhering to client procedures and standards. Responsibilities Work with client stakeholders and travel team to support, coordinate and implement the assigned elements of company events, hotel group travel and meetings. Create and develop plans and timelines, ensuring deadlines are met accordingly. Provide support with sourcing hotel group contracts, utilizing and leveraging preferred and approved partners. Prepare estimated air and hotel program budgets, presenting to Manager for review and approval. Assist in development and presentation of proposals as required. Assist in scheduling meetings, providing logistics support and planning to ensure smooth implementation of events within allocated budget and timeline. Conduct pre-event briefings to travel team, update Events SOPs as needed, making recommendations for process improvements. Work closely with client stakeholders and travel team in ensuring accurate and timely information is clearly communicated, following proper event process and standards set out by client. Manage hotel group blockage and rooming list coordination. Track and manage air, hotel and vendor attrition, cancellation and deposit schedules. Support with ground transport arrangements where needed via existing preferred suppliers. Prepare event related payment requests, ensuring timely payment of all supplier/vendor bills, overseeing the invoice payment of deposits with the necessary follow-ups, supporting reconciliation of final billing as required. Responsible for organization and maintenance of all event files, event data quality and follow-up on inconsistencies. Participates in regular group meetings with client stakeholders, travel team, and any officially appointed third party partners of client. Travel projects and business plans: assist client to develop or support the execution of the assigned plans and projects, e.g. implementations, RFPs, data management, monitoring KPIs. Ad hoc travel management reporting: research, gather data, analytics and preparing designated or customized reports. Facilitate effective communication with all levels of travel management team. Assumes and performs other duties and responsibilities not specifically outlined herein, as requested. Qualifications Diploma or Degree in Event, Hospitality, Travel, Hotel Management or equivalent. Minimum of 3 - 5 years’ experience managing outside vendors, sourcing and negotiating contract services with regional focus. Minimum of 1 - 2 years’ experience in client management preferably within the Meetings & Events industry. Working experience in Travel Management Company and GDS knowledge would be an advantage. Understanding of event management technology (Lanyon/CVent) is preferred. CMP, PMP accreditation will be a plus. Strong time management and organizational skills to manage multiple projects. Excellent customer service skills and attention to detail. Strong communication and presentation skills. Good analytical skills and general understanding of event/group travel budgeting. Ability to lead and work well under pressure and adapt to ever-changing scenarios. Capability of problem solving - anticipating, initiating and resolving issues. Benefits This is an exciting experience within an international work environment. You’ll be working with a great international team of colleagues in a dynamic work environment. A culture of purpose where we are invested in your happiness and career growth. Competitive salary and benefits package. Ongoing learning & development opportunities. #J-18808-Ljbffr