At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team in sourcing and managing travel suppliers for optimal performance.
- Company: Join HBX Group, the leading tech partner in the travel industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy an attractive benefits package and career development opportunities worldwide.
- Other info: Work in a diverse, innovative environment with global connections.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative journey in the travel services sector.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in sourcing with strong negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
HBX Group is the world’s leading technology partner, connecting and empowering the world of travel. We bring together global and local brands across accommodation, transport, activities and payments, supported by a network of over 300,000 hotels and 60,000 travel partners worldwide. We are tech-driven, customer-focused, and powered by exceptional people.
Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Head of Sourcing to lead the full Transfers Sourcing team (approx. 12 people). This role will take full ownership of operational performance, commercial delivery, and supplier governance, allowing the Director of Global Sourcing to step back from day-to-day management. The ideal candidate will bring strong leadership experience at Head-of-level, with a proven track record of driving performance, managing complex supplier relationships, and navigating demanding stakeholder environments across HBX Group. This is not a step-up role — we require someone who can immediately step in, lead confidently, and deliver. Transfers experience is ideal, but strong travel sector sourcing backgrounds will also be considered.
Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage the full Transfers Sourcing team (approx. 12 people), overseeing performance, delivery and professional development.
- Ensure strong audit, governance, and compliance standards across the sourcing function, including direct management of two Sourcing Executive Administrators.
- Drive commercial results by negotiating competitive rates, terms, and service delivery with transport suppliers.
- Oversee supplier relationships, ensuring quality, operational excellence, and adherence to SLAs.
- Collaborate closely with Pricing, Sales, Supplier Performance, Finance, and other HBX Group stakeholders.
- Maintain strong communication with suppliers, proactively resolving issues and escalating underperformance when necessary.
- Support hotel payment processes and liaise with Supplier Performance teams to ensure strong cross-departmental alignment.
- Act as a hands-on leader — comfortable making calls, joining operational discussions, and representing the department confidently.
- Identify growth opportunities within sourcing and champion new initiatives aligned with business strategy.
Skillset and Experience Required
- Proven leadership experience at Head-of-level, with strong results-driven delivery in sourcing or travel procurement.
- Experience managing transport or travel suppliers; Transfers experience highly desirable.
- Strong governance, audit, and compliance mindset within a sourcing function.
- Ability to manage and motivate a geographically dispersed and multicultural team.
- Excellent negotiation, communication, and stakeholder-management skills across all levels of HBX Group.
- Hands-on, proactive, and comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
- Strong commercial acumen, with the ability to balance cost, service, and operational impact.
- Highly organized, analytical, and confident handling complex supplier portfolios.
- Willingness to travel and to engage directly with suppliers when required.
At HBX Group, we believe that diversity drives innovation and makes travel a force for good. We're committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. Join us and be part of a team where equal opportunities truly make a difference.
You will have the opportunity to work for a company that is going through significant change in becoming the world’s leading travel services provider. We are looking for people that are ready to ride the wave in this exciting journey. As well as an attractive benefits package you will be able to work within an innovative, engaging and multicultural environment, build strong and lasting business relationships and friendships from around the world, and develop your career locally or within one of our beautiful working locations across the globe.
Head of Sourcing employer: HBX Group
At HBX Group, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that fosters a dynamic and inclusive work culture. Our Global Corporate Secretary Paralegal role not only offers competitive benefits and a supportive environment but also provides ample opportunities for professional growth in a multicultural setting. Join us to be part of a team that values innovation and compliance, ensuring your contributions are meaningful and impactful.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Sourcing
✨Get Involved in Local Travel Events
Join local tourism fairs or travel expos in your area. These events are a treasure trove for networking, and you can often meet hiring managers from companies like HBX Group who are looking for fresh talent for roles like Head of Sourcing.
✨Showcase Your Travel Know-How
Create a travel blog or use social media to share your experiences and insights about different destinations. This can help you stand out to recruiters in the travel industry, demonstrating your passion for the sector and your ability to engage with an audience.
✨Connect with Alumni from Your School
Check out alumni groups linked to the travel and tourism sectors. Often, these connections can lead to inside info about opportunities at companies like HBX Group and give you a leg up for your Head of Sourcing application.
✨Don’t Shy Away from Cold Emails
If there's a dream company you want to join, don’t hesitate to send a friendly email to their HR or recruitment team. Express your interest in their vision and mention that you’re keen on any Head of Sourcing openings they might have. It's a bold move, but it might just pay off!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Sourcing
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 Sourcing role at HBX Group.
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 Sourcing position at HBX Group.
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 HBX Group.
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 HBX Group's adventures. Share any unique perspectives or ideas you have to enhance the travel experience, especially as a full-time Head of Sourcing.
How to prepare for a job interview at HBX Group
✨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!
✨Prepare for Customer Scenarios
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!
✨Highlight Your Flexibility and Passion
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 HBX Group.