Sr Director Corporate Travel

About Us Freeman is a global leader in events, on a mission to redefine live for a new era.
With a data-driven approach and the industry’s largest network of experts, Freeman’s insights shape exhibitions, exhibits, and events that drive audiences to action.
The integrated full-service solutions leverage a 96-year legacy in event management as well as new technologies to deliver moments that matter.
Summary This position is dedicated to enhancing the business travel experience for employees while also ensuring their safety and well-being.
By actively monitoring the travel market trends and fostering strong relationships with vendors, this position continuously seeks innovative ways to improve travel policies and processes, driving greater efficiency and value for the organization.
This position directs the operations, processes, and implementation of travel and all related services within the Company.
This may include domestic and international travel, online booking products, payments and expense programs in the travel space to effectively implement, direct and manage the spend across the Company.
This position directly manages our vendor partners' team of travel professionals.
The activities related to these areas must be performed in a culture of influence while maximizing business productivity and minimizing overall costs.
To be successful, you should have a strong working knowledge of travel management processes and excellent attention to detail.
Ultimately, a top-notch travel leader is skilled at maintaining positive relationships with airlines and hotels and at providing a smooth travel experience.
This position will support our Business Operations team.
It is eligible to work a hybrid schedule, generally requiring work in-office and/or show-site 2-3 days per week.
The position will be based out of our North Dallas location in Dallas, TX.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities Category Management: Formulate comprehensive strategies for various travel-related categories, such as airlines, hotels, ground transportation, and other travel services.
Conduct market research and analysis to identify potential suppliers and negotiate favorable terms and pricing.
Collaborate with stakeholders to identify specific travel-related needs and align travel strategies with organizational objectives.
Ensure compliance with company policies, industry regulations, and ethical practices.
Identify leakage opportunities, devise plans, and enact practices to address.
Contract Management: Monitor and evaluate supplier performance against established contract terms, addressing any discrepancies or issues promptly.
Collaborate with legal and procurement teams to handle contract modifications, extensions, and terminations when necessary.
Supplier Management: Establish a robust supplier evaluation framework to assess the performance and capabilities of existing suppliers regularly.
Identify opportunities for supplier development and work closely with suppliers to improve their offerings and service levels.
Internal Coordination: Facilitate effective communication and cooperation with executive leadership to understand their requirements and align travel strategies accordingly.
Leadership: Present industry best practices to company executives and determine plan for implementation.
Remain up to date on industry trends and developments; continuously seek ways to improve Freeman’s travel program and user experience.
Continuously monitor travel spend and identify opportunities for cost savings.
Education & Experience 10+ years of progressive experience in travel management or related roles.
High School Diploma or Equivalent with relevant work experience required, Bachelors Degree from a 4 year accredited institution preferred.
Proven experience in developing and implementing travel programs, policies, procedures, and strategies.
Strong understanding of corporate travel management, including negotiations with suppliers, contract management, expense management, and compliance.
Strategic thinker with proven ability to align travel programs with overall business objectives.
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
Excellent communication, customer service, and interpersonal skills.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Familiarity with industry trends and best practices in corporate travel.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations Certified Corporate Travel Executive (CCTE) or similar industry certifications preferred but not required.
Travel Requirements Travel up to 25% Diversity Commitment At Freeman, our commitment to diversity and inclusion is helping us to create not only a great place to work, but also an environment where our employees, our customers and our communities around the world can reach their goals and connect with each other.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status and other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.