Manager, Business Development & Network Support

Company Description

Be part of the journey!

Our mission is to be the preferred airline of our customers and our team.

Open-mindedness, concern for others, intelligence at work and, above all, a healthy dose of fun enable us to achieve great things every day. Our dedication has earned us the title of the world's best leisure airline multiple times, and we’re just getting started.

Want to join us?

You will have the chance to enjoy exclusive travel privileges to explore the world and create unforgettable memories. You will also have the opportunity to work in a modern, inspiring environment.

Job Description

The role is responsible for overseeing the organization, planning, and growth of TDC's franchisee and affiliate business across Canada, excluding Quebec. Responsibilities include managing contracts and processing renewals, while enforcing network standards, conditions, and brand compliance. The role also supports members by helping them maximize preferred partner sales and agency profits. Approximately 50% of the time is dedicated to prospecting new members through cold calls and securing appointments to present TDC’s value proposition. This position serves as the primary communication link between the network and its members, making it a varied and dynamic role.

Transat Distribution Canada (TDC) is a prominent player in the Canadian travel industry, operating as a full-service travel agency network and a business unit of Transat A.T. Inc., a leading international tourism company headquartered in Montreal. It is a full-service travel agency network with 260 physical travel agencies, websites, a call center, and independent travel counsellors representing the agent@home program. The network includes the Transat Travel, Marlin Travel, Club Voyages, TravelPlus, and Voyages en Liberté brands, as well as other affiliates. TDC is a subsidiary of Transat A.T. Inc., a large integrated international travel company specializing in vacation packages, hotel stays, and air links. Transat was awarded Travelife certification in 2018 as part of its commitment to sustainable development. Its headquarters are in Montreal.

• Work closely with other sectors of TDC to keep members engaged and increase awareness of the network, and manage contracts and administrative documents for franchisees and affiliates.
• Retain franchisees and affiliates through strong relationship management by providing operational and business support, and prospect and secure appointments to assist in growing the network and meeting growth targets.
• In collaboration with the network support team, help new members integrate into the network by providing support and coaching to familiarize them with the structure and various programs of TDC.
• Provide an elevated level of customer service and assist members in supplier situations, and conduct face-to-face and virtual visits to members in assigned territory to conduct strategic consultations to help them improve their financial strength.
• Analyze and follow up on the sales performance of the Bravo partners, and host virtual conference calls for advisors and agency owners to share best practices and improve efficiency, along with setting up webinars with SMEs.
• Facilitate organic network development by networking and arranging meetings between buyers and sellers of agencies within the TDC network, and canvass new agencies and potential owners by selecting, meeting, and analyzing agencies with the best potential to join.
• Occasionally participate in training trips such as academies and fams, and attend TDC conferences to network with members and occasionally present.
• Promote the various programs offered by TDC and ensure members are proficient in and use the various tools and programs, and ensure member engagement at various TDC events (conferences, webinars, trainings, fams).
• Regularly communicate with members and help increase TDC’s visibility through posts on TDC’s private social media channels, and attend industry events.
• Keep aware of industry issues.

Qualifications

• Relevant experience of 3 to 5 years (in travel agency management an asset or tour operator BDM), and knowledge of the expedited travel industry and its players an asset.

• Sales and negotiation skills including prospecting and willingness to do cold calls, along with excellent presentation skills.

• Understand the issues of a travel agency owner, and provide strong customer service skills.

• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills, paired with strong analytical skills.

• Excellent organization skills and attention to detail, and ability to meet tight deadlines while working on multiple projects at once.

• Ability to deal with change, and effectively use the Microsoft 365 Suite.

• Willingness to travel within Canada (25%) and outside the country (approximately 10%).

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, and ability to work independently or as part of a team.

Additional Information

#LI-AE1

Employment Equity

At Transat, we foster an environment where inclusiveness, respect and equity reign. We endeavour to build a workforce that reflects the diversity of our customers as well as the communities to which we travel. We encourage women, members of visible minorities, ethnic minorities, aboriginal peoples as well as people with disabilities to submit their candidacy. Transat will accommodate people with disabilities throughout the recruitment and selection process. If you require an accommodation, please contact us in order to work together in meeting adequately your needs.