Main Functions
Lead and manage the Company's travel and protocol operations by providing strategic leadership for travel governance, vendor and contract management, protocol services, and operational delivery. Ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective travel and accommodation services through effective stakeholder engagement, commercial negotiations, digital transformation, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement while delivering exceptional service standards that support business objectives and enhance the Company's reputation.
Task And Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership And Governance:
Develop, implement and continuously improve travel management policies, procedures and governance frameworks aligned with corporate objectives and industry best practices
Establish and monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for service delivery, cost efficiency and customer satisfaction, providing strategic recommendations to senior management
Lead cross-functional coordination with all business entities to anticipate travel requirements, optimize resource allocation and ensure alignment with operational priorities
Drive digital transformation initiatives including PTS and Mission Order applications to enhance operational efficiency and management reporting capabilities
Commercial And Vendor Management:
Lead commercial negotiations with airlines, travel agencies and hotels to secure optimal pricing, service levels and contractual terms that deliver measurable cost savings
Establish and enforce Service Level Agreements (SLAs) with all service providers, conducting regular performance reviews and implementing corrective actions where required
Manage the full contract lifecycle for travel and accommodation agreements including tender evaluation, contract award, performance monitoring and renewal negotiations
Conduct annual HSE audits of all hotels and accommodation facilities to ensure compliance with Company safety and hygiene standards
Protocol And Stakeholder Management:
Direct protocol operations ensuring VIP-standard services for executives, expatriates, partners and high-profile visitors at Lagos and Port Harcourt airports
Cultivate and maintain strategic relationships with senior officials at FAAN, Immigration, NCAA and other regulatory bodies to facilitate expedited clearance and resolve complex issues
Coordinate logistics arrangements for major corporate events, ensuring seamless travel and accommodation for all participants including senior leadership and VIP guests
Act as escalation point and decision-maker for complex travel issues, flight disruptions and emergency situations requiring immediate resolution
Operational Excellence:
Ensure all official missions for staff, contractors and guests are processed with accuracy, timeliness and in full compliance with Company travel policy
Optimize guesthouse occupancy and hotel allocation through demand forecasting, capacity planning and dynamic resource management
Maintain comprehensive traveller documentation and data analytics capabilities to support management decision-making and regulatory compliance
Deputize for the Travels Manager as required, assuming full functional responsibility during absence
Deliver measurable cost savings through strategic procurement, fare optimization and commercial negotiations while maintaining or improving service quality standards
Ensure zero safety incidents related to travel and accommodation services through rigorous HSE compliance, vendor audits and continuous improvement initiatives
Guarantee business continuity through robust contingency planning, real-time problem resolution and effective stakeholder communication during disruptions
Maintain strong governance and internal control over all travel expenditure, vendor transactions and procurement activities in full compliance with Company rules and anti-corruption policies
Sustain excellent relationships with airlines, hotels, travel agencies and regulatory bodies that enable preferential service levels and rapid issue resolution
Provide timely, accurate and insightful performance reports, analytics and strategic recommendations to enable informed management decision-making
Develop team capabilities and build succession pipeline through coaching, training and structured development programmes
Ensure full compliance with all applicable regulations, immigration requirements and aviation security protocols
HSE Objectives:
Champion a strong HSE culture within the Travels and Protocol function, ensuring all personnel understand and fulfil their safety responsibilities
Ensure all hotels and accommodation facilities meet Company HSE standards through systematic audits, risk assessments and corrective action tracking
Implement and monitor compliance with travel safety procedures including journey management, emergency response protocols and incident reporting
Familiarise self and team with Company's EP Nigeria emergency procedures, carrying out assigned responsibilities safely and reporting all incidents, unsafe acts or conditions
Ensure all personnel under supervision are appropriately trained, competent and continuously monitored for HSE compliance.
Job Requirements
University degree in business administration, Management, hospitality, travel & tourism, or related discipline
Minimum 10 years' experience in corporate travel management, hospitality, or general services within a large multinational organisation, with at least 3 years in a supervisory role
Demonstrated expertise in commercial negotiations, contract management and vendor relationship management
Strong financial acumen with experience in budget management, cost control and procurement
Excellent communication skills in English; French language proficiency is a significant advantage
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office suite (Excel, PowerPoint) and travel management systems
Proven ability to work autonomously, exercise sound judgement under pressure and make rapid decisions with significant business impact
Strong interpersonal skills with demonstrated ability to influence stakeholders at all organisational levels and build productive external relationships
Knowledge of aviation industry, airline operations and regulatory requirements is highly desirable.