At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage supplier relationships and negotiate contracts for European tours.
- Company: Established B2B tour operator with a focus on group travel.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive team environment, and opportunities for overseas travel.
- Why this job: Step into a respected role with real ownership in the travel industry.
- Qualifications: Fluent in French and English, with experience in travel or hospitality.
- Other info: Long-term stability and career progression in a dynamic sector.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 45000 £ per year.
An established B2B tour operator specialising in European group and coach travel is seeking a European Contracting Manager to join its London-based team. This is a business-critical, long-term role, replacing a team member who has been with the company for over 11 years. It offers the opportunity to step into a well-structured, respected position with real ownership of supplier relationships and European markets.
The role would suit an experienced travel contracting/purchasing professional, although strong junior candidates with relevant travel or hospitality background will also be considered.
The Role – European Contracting & Supplier Management
- This is a hands-on, commercial role focused on hotel and ground service contracting for European tours, primarily supporting India-focused group travel.
- Contracting, negotiating, and managing hotels, transport providers, attractions, and ground services across Europe.
- Owning and developing long-term supplier relationships, including regular face-to-face meetings.
- Conducting rate negotiations, market research, and competitor analysis.
- Attending UK and European travel trade events and workshops (e.g. London, Paris, Italy).
- Overseas travel for supplier contracting during peak periods (typically June–September, in short stints).
- Working closely with internal operations and sales teams to ensure smooth tour delivery.
- Maintaining accurate contracting, pricing, and supplier records.
- Supporting continuous improvement of product quality and commercial performance.
The role requires flexibility to travel for approximately 2–3 months of the year, usually in one-week periods.
About You
- Experience within travel, tourism, or hospitality.
- Exposure to contracting, purchasing, supplier negotiations, or product management.
- Fluent French and English (additional European languages such as German or Dutch advantageous).
- Strong commercial awareness with confident negotiation skills.
- Comfortable building relationships and attending face-to-face supplier meetings.
- Organised, detail-oriented, and proactive.
- Confident IT skills, particularly Excel and Microsoft Office.
- Full, clean UK driving licence required.
- Able to work in a fully office-based role.
- Strong junior profiles with the right industry background will also be considered.
Additional Information
- Office located a short walk from Harrow-on-the-Hill station.
- Interview process: video interview followed by face-to-face.
- Supportive, collaborative team environment.
- Long-term stability and progression within the travel sector.
- Overseas travel and genuine ownership of European markets.
French Speaking - European Contracting Manager in London employer: Antal International Network
Contact Detail:
Antal International Network Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land French Speaking - European Contracting Manager in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend travel trade events and workshops to meet industry folks. It's all about those face-to-face connections that can lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your negotiation skills! When you get the chance, talk about your past experiences in contracting and how you've successfully managed supplier relationships. This will make you stand out.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Research the company and its suppliers before interviews. Knowing their market and competitors will show you're genuinely interested and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who take the initiative. Plus, it gives you a better chance of being noticed by our hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace French Speaking - European Contracting Manager in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in travel, tourism, or hospitality. We want to see how your skills align with the European Contracting Manager role, so don’t be shy about showcasing relevant achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about this role and how your background makes you the perfect fit. Remember, we love a bit of personality, so let your enthusiasm show!
Show Off Your Language Skills: Since this role requires fluent French and English, make sure to highlight your language proficiency clearly. If you’ve got any additional European languages up your sleeve, don’t forget to mention those too – they could give you an edge!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at Antal International Network
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the travel and hospitality industry, especially regarding European markets. Familiarise yourself with current trends, key players, and any recent news that could impact the role. This will show your passion and commitment to the field.
✨Show Off Your Language Skills
Since this role requires fluency in French, be prepared to demonstrate your language skills during the interview. Practice speaking about your experience and relevant topics in French, as it will help you stand out and show that you're ready for the role.
✨Prepare for Negotiation Scenarios
Expect questions around negotiation tactics and supplier management. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully negotiated contracts or built relationships. Be ready to discuss your approach and how you handle challenges in these situations.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask. Inquire about the company's future plans, the team dynamics, or specific challenges they face in supplier management. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.