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- Tasks: Manage vendor relationships and support cargo teams in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join Air Partner, a leading international aviation services group with a diverse team.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid work options, inclusive culture, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a family-oriented company committed to diversity and social impact.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in OBC, RFS, or Airfreight; strong relationship management skills required.
- Other info: Virtual interviews available; we guarantee interviews for disabled applicants meeting criteria.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 84000 £ per year.
Are you an experienced Vendor Manager looking for a busy and varied role that allows you to utilise your relationship management and networking skills? If so, apply now as we are looking for a Vendor Manager to join our UK Cargo team at our Gatwick office on a hybrid model. The role of the Vendor Manager is to oversee and develop the relationships with various vendors that supply services to Air Partner globally. This includes On-board Couriers (OBC), Road Feeder Services (RFS) and Airfreight suppliers. The role also covers administrative, commercial and operational support to the Air Partner cargo teams globally and will involve creating process documentation, team training, managing the global vendor network and sales/business development. The focus is heavily on gaining competitive advantage for Air Partner through vendor capabilities and agreements, therefore increasing global revenue overall.
Accountabilities
- OBC
- Review the current global courier network and update/redesign database.
- Review and update the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), guidelines and templates.
- Update the courier ‘Code of Conduct.
- Create an operational training document and process.
- Implement new systems to assist the cargo teams, i.e. ticket booking tools, customs agents etc.
- Review RFS suppliers globally and grow network.
- Create a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).
- Establish rate agreements & incentives beneficial to Air Partner.
- Review the airfreight suppliers globally and grow network.
- Create a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).
- Establish rate agreements & incentives beneficial to Air Partner.
- Manage and support the cargo teams in all aspects of day-to-day trading.
- Support the training team when required.
- Attend key trade shows/exhibitions in areas of interest representing the brand.
Candidate Requirements
- 5 plus years’ experience of working within the OBC, RFS or Airfreight environment.
- First rate product knowledge of Air Partner Time Critical services with a good understanding of changing markets.
- Proven ability to motivate, encourage and assist team members in growing the existing client base.
- The ability to challenge the views of others in a constructive and positive way.
- Experience in managing key accounts, managing client care and delivering high levels of service.
- Willingness to work outside office hours to maintain service levels to Air Partner’s clients.
- Have a well thought out, credible view for the direction of the business.
- Willingness to travel when required and on short notice.
- A goal-driven, high-energy individual that is both an independent worker and a strong team player.
- Experienced working in an international, multi-cultural environment.
- Anticipates and intervenes, to recover a situation in a timely and constructive way.
Established in 1961, Air Partner is an international aviation services group and we’re inviting you to join our crew. As a key player in the Wheels Up family, we’re soaring to new heights in private aviation and aviation services with a team of over 2000 professionals globally. We’re also proudly a Delta Air Lines premium partner – talk about flying in good company! Providing world class aircraft charter services and aviation safety and security solutions, we’re the go-to for industry giants, commerce champions, governments, and private jetsetters. We also flex our wings in both civil and military circles globally. Our Charter Division comprises of group charter, private jets, cargo, and specialist services. Group Charter charters large airliners to move groups of any size. Private Jets offers the Company’s unique pre-paid JetCard scheme and on-demand charter for up to 19 people. Cargo charters aircraft of every size to fly almost any cargo anywhere, at any time. But we’re not just about the skies; we’re about creating an atmosphere where you can thrive. We’re committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and it’s not just lip service. Our Environmental, Social, and Governance Strategy and our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion forum aren’t just policies; they’re our way of life. We were the first corporate sponsor of the European Pride in Aviation Network (EPAN) and proudly support our local communities through charitable initiatives and volunteering. We’re not just a company; we’re a family, and we’re on the lookout for more incredible individuals. Are you ready to belong? If you’re thinking, "That’s the place for me!" – we’d love to learn more about you. Plus, we’re not just saying it; as a Disability Confident employer we guarantee an interview for any disabled person meeting our job criteria. That’s not just a promise; it’s our commitment to an inclusive future.
What’s the next step?
A virtual interview where you get to show your stuff to our Talent Acquisition team. And if all goes well, you’ll be meeting our business teams in person. Need any adjustments for the journey? Just let us know; we’re all about making sure you’re comfortable and confident. We encourage applications from every background so if you’re ready to make your career take off, check us out at . Your next adventure is just a click away!
Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
Employment type: Full-time
Job function: Business Development, Strategy/Planning, and Sales
Industries: Airlines and Aviation, Transportation, Logistics, Supply Chain and Storage, and Freight and Package Transportation
Vendor Manager employer: Air Partner
Contact Detail:
Air Partner Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Vendor Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the aviation and logistics sectors. Attend industry events, trade shows, or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and vendors. Building relationships can give you insights into the role and may even lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in vendor management and airfreight services. Understanding current market dynamics will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying informed and relevant in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed vendor relationships in the past. Highlight your ability to negotiate agreements and improve service levels, as these are key aspects of the Vendor Manager role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your adaptability and problem-solving skills during the interview process. The role requires a proactive approach to managing challenges, so be ready to share instances where you've effectively navigated complex situations in a fast-paced environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Vendor Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in vendor management, particularly within the OBC, RFS, or Airfreight sectors. Use specific examples that demonstrate your relationship management and networking skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also reflects your understanding of Air Partner's values and mission. Mention how your experience aligns with their focus on gaining competitive advantage through vendor capabilities.
Showcase Relevant Achievements: In your application, include quantifiable achievements from your previous roles, such as successful vendor negotiations or process improvements that led to increased revenue. This will help illustrate your impact in past positions.
Prepare for the Interview: Research common interview questions for vendor management roles and prepare thoughtful responses. Be ready to discuss how you would approach managing vendor relationships and improving operational processes at Air Partner.
How to prepare for a job interview at Air Partner
✨Showcase Your Vendor Management Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in managing vendor relationships, particularly in the OBC, RFS, or Airfreight sectors. Highlight specific examples where you successfully improved vendor performance or negotiated beneficial agreements.
✨Demonstrate Your Knowledge of Air Partner's Services
Familiarise yourself with Air Partner's range of services, especially Time Critical services. Understanding their offerings will allow you to speak confidently about how you can contribute to their goals and enhance their competitive advantage.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle challenging situations. Prepare scenarios from your past experiences where you had to intervene and recover a situation effectively, showcasing your proactive approach.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration Skills
As the role involves supporting cargo teams and training, be ready to discuss how you have motivated and collaborated with team members in the past. Share examples that illustrate your ability to work well in a multicultural environment and foster a positive team dynamic.
