At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic growth for Long Haul or Short Haul travel portfolios and drive commercial outcomes.
- Company: Join IAG Loyalty, a dynamic company transforming travel experiences.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to diverse perspectives and fair recruitment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of travel while embracing cutting-edge technology and innovation.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience with a focus on growth and strategic execution.
Who we are
IAG Loyalty is one organisation with two ambitious, growing divisions across Loyalty and Holidays. We are united by a shared vision to create a more rewarding world of travel and experiences. Our Holidays division, including British Airways Holidays, connects customers to thousands of destinations worldwide through seamless end‑to‑end travel experiences. Our Loyalty division houses Avios, a global loyalty currency that enables millions of members to collect and spend rewards across travel, retail and financial services.
Opportunity
We are recruiting for two equivalent leadership roles – Head of Long Haul and Head of Short Haul. The Product & Sourcing team is at a pivotal point, with ambitious growth plans and continued investment in technology. You will lead either the Long Haul or Short Haul destination portfolio, its strategic portfolio management and sourcing strategy. This includes the British Airways Holidays brand and may broaden to other markets and brands over time.
In this role you will have a remit to shape strategy, modernise workflows, embrace automation and support the use of AI and new technology. You will identify growth opportunities, define direction, build capability and drive commercial outcomes.
Reporting to the Head of Product & Sourcing, you will work closely with the counterpart and the broader leadership team to embed new ways of working, ensuring the team remains commercially focused, customer‑led, adaptable and aligned to the evolving operating model.
Job Details
Location: Crawley. Hybrid model – two days in the office and three from home. Travel will be required as needed.
What you’ll get up to
- Drive growth and portfolio performance – define the biggest growth opportunities and turn market, product and commercial insight into clear priorities.
- Lead commercial strategy and partnerships – shape contracting approaches, challenge existing methods, identify efficient ways to secure product, and step into key partner negotiations.
- Champion transformation – embed new technologies and processes while maintaining day‑to‑day delivery.
- Lead a team through the next stage of transformation – develop a high‑performing team, create clarity and accountability, and guide people through ongoing change.
- Act as a collaborative leader within the leadership team – contribute to shared outcomes and support joined‑up decision‑making.
What we need from you
- Experienced people leader capable of bringing teams together around a shared direction and creating momentum in a changing environment.
- Track record of delivering measurable growth across sales, profit, margin or portfolio performance.
- Ability to balance strategic thinking with execution, identifying opportunities and making decisions across complex portfolios.
- Experience in product strategy, sourcing strategy or both, and ability to operate credibly across the remit of the role.
- Credible senior leader who can build trust, communicate with authority, influence stakeholders and solve problems.
- Pragmatic, delivery‑focused with a long‑term mindset and ability to keep execution moving at pace.
- Motivated by opportunities to improve how things work, embracing automation, AI and new technologies.
Diversity and Inclusion
We are committed to building a workplace where people belong and are valued for their perspective. Our goal is to encourage applications from people with different experiences and backgrounds, and to ensure the recruitment process is fair, inclusive and accessible.
Additional information
Both Head of Short Haul and Head of Long Haul are available and applications are considered for both roles through a single advert.
Head of Long Haul & Head of Short Haul (2 roles) in Crawley employer: British Airways Holidays Ltd
IAG Loyalty is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Crawley that fosters innovation and collaboration. With a hybrid working model, employees enjoy the flexibility of remote work while being part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to transforming the travel experience. The company prioritises employee growth through leadership opportunities and embraces diversity, ensuring a workplace where every voice is valued and heard.
Contact Details:
British Airways Holidays Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Long Haul & Head of Short Haul (2 roles) in Crawley
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We think you need these skills to ace Head of Long Haul & Head of Short Haul (2 roles) in Crawley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Travel:In the travel and tourism industry, your love for exploration and different cultures should shine through in your application. Make sure to share personal anecdotes or experiences that highlight your enthusiasm for travel—this can really set you apart when applying for the Head of Long Haul & Head of Short Haul (2 roles) role at British Airways Holidays Ltd.
Highlight Your Customer Service Skills:Customer service is king in travel and tourism. When detailing your work experience, focus on situations where you provided outstanding service or resolved customer issues, as this demonstrates your ability to ensure client satisfaction. Include specific examples in your CV to show that you're ready to face the challenges of the Head of Long Haul & Head of Short Haul (2 roles) position at British Airways Holidays Ltd.
Keep Your CV Travel-Themed:When it comes to CV conventions in the travel industry, think of including any relevant certifications or training you've completed, like first aid or tour guiding courses. If you've travelled widely yourself, don't hesitate to mention that—it's all about showing your background fits the globetrotting vibe of British Airways Holidays Ltd.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should not only explain why you're a great fit but also reflect your personality! Use this space to express what excites you about the travel sector and how you can contribute to British Airways Holidays Ltd's adventures. Share any unique perspectives or ideas you have to enhance the travel experience, especially as a full-time Head of Long Haul & Head of Short Haul (2 roles).
How to prepare for a job interview at British Airways Holidays Ltd
✨Show Off Your Travel Knowledge
For a role in travel and tourism, it’s vital to demonstrate your knowledge of different destinations, cultures, and travel trends. Brush up on popular destinations and recent changes in travel restrictions. We suggest bringing some interesting travel stories or experiences to share—this can help you connect personally with the interviewer!
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Expect to be hit with customer service scenarios during the interview. They might ask how you'd handle a challenging traveller or resolve a booking issue. Think of a few real-life examples from your experiences, even if they’re just from customer service roles. This will show that you're ready for the field and have the right mindset to tackle on-the-ground challenges!
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In a full-time travel position, there are often irregular hours and spontaneous travel opportunities. Be sure to convey your flexibility and willingness to embrace the unpredictable nature of this industry. Let’s showcase that enthusiasm for travel and how it drives your decision-making!
✨Know the Tools of the Trade
Get familiar with travel booking systems and tools, such as Amadeus or Sabre. If you have experience using any specific software or even social media for travel promotions, bring that up! We want to show that you can hit the ground running and adapt quickly to their processes at British Airways Holidays Ltd.
