Job Description of a Corporate Travel Manager
A corporate travel manager is responsible for planning trips for other members of the company. Travel managers must be familiar with the operations and schedules of modes of transportation such as airlines and passenger trains in their home country and possibly overseas. In larger corporations, they may also have the added responsibility of managing a travel department staff.
Stress and Changes
- Corporate travel managers typically work in a corporation’s headquarters. They spend the majority of their day working at a computer and on the telephone making any necessary travel arrangements. They can often work under stress, especially in a large corporation with many travelers, or in situations where travel plans suddenly change or a trip must be planned at the last minute. Any type of industry might employ a corporate travel manager.
It’s a Negotiator’s World
- Corporate travel managers should possess strong negotiating skills since a large part of their job includes obtaining the best possible rates for travel and accommodations. This involves building relationships with vendors who will offer discounts for repeated use of their services. They also need to be able to work well with all departments within the company. Globalization of the economy requires knowledge of other countries’ customs, monetary system and other issues.
Get That Sheepskin
- Most corporate travel managers will need at least a bachelor’s degree, preferably in a business related field. In some situations, an MBA will be required. It is also helpful to have previous travel industry experience, such as working in a travel agency. Certifications from organizations such as the Institute of Certified Travel Agents can also help the travel manager attain career advancement.
It’s A Living
- According to Indeed.com, the average corporate travel manager earned $66,000 per year in 2014. Salaries could vary according to organization, experience and location.
Globalization Means Travel
- With the continued expansion of a global economy, the demand for the corporate travel manager positions is expected to increase in the coming years. As such, travel managers will need to have a growing awareness of travel procedures, regulations and cultural differences in an increasing number of foreign countries, especially in companies that conduct a large amount of business overseas. Economic downturns increase the need to spend wisely for corporate travel, and the travel manager plays a key role in this area.
