VP, DMC Partnerships in London

Kensington delivers the world's most personal travel experiences. We bring to life each client's desire to travel in a way that's tailored specifically for them, in the company of local private guides who ensure that they enjoy the authentic best of their destination. The result is a unique journey rich in memories that last a lifetime. We achieve this because of our extraordinary people, experts with deep knowledge of their destinations. For over 120 countries worldwide, and across each of our brands – Tours, Cruises, Villas, Yachts, Jets, and Air.

Reporting to Kensington's SVP, Commercial, the VP, DMC Partnerships is responsible for building and growing partnerships with Destination Management Company (DMC) partners in key markets across the globe. This involves seeking out new, strategic DMC partners, establishing profitable commercial frameworks, ensuring high quality of service for our travelers, and managing ongoing profitability of business relationships. This key position will work closely with the product, partner relations, operations, analytics, and sales teams within Kensington and Travel Edge.

Responsibilities

• Build, lead and develop a team of high-performing business development specialists dedicated to driving profitable business outcomes.
• Work with DMC partners to create travel experiences for Kensington customers that are unique and seamlessly delivered.
• Plan, organize, direct, and control the complete travel partner acquisition cycle from prospecting through contracting, onboarding, and ongoing evaluation of rates, services, and delivery.
• Negotiate service and distribution agreements with DMC partners of all sizes in all regions; Review contracts and concisely summarize key terms and red flags prior to signature.
• Ensure all suppliers meet key brand standards and contract requirements such as amenities, payment and cancellation terms, liability insurance, and marketing commitments.
• Understand and monitor the industry landscape to identify and onboard new DMC partners.
• Articulate Kensington's unique value propositions to potential partners and represent Kensington at industry events.
• Own and lead business results meetings with partners and internal business stakeholders to ensure a comprehensive review of results and action items.
• Effectively coordinate with key internal and external stakeholders to ensure accomplishment of shared business objectives promoting a collaborative team environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10+ years partner relations, account management, and/or procurement experience in a complex, multi-stakeholder company. Travel industry experience preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years in supervisory and leadership roles.
• Experience with a global purchasing model and luxury services/product an asset.
• Advanced negotiation skills – able to deliver results while maintaining partner engagement.
• Proven ability to work through conflict, build trust, generate respect, and influence outcomes through outstanding interpersonal and relationship building skills at all levels within the organization and with partners.
• Superior time management skills - able to work in a fast paced, changing environment and meet time sensitive deadlines.
• Analytical mind set with ability to digest and communicate quantitative reports across multiple data sets.
• Demonstrated aptitude for learning new technologies.
• Upbeat personality, a hands-on team player and self-starter who can work in a lean environment with autonomy.
• Advanced written and verbal communication skills, including presentation skills and an ability to communicate at all levels, both internally and externally with polish and professionalism.
• Proficient with Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
• Strong project management mindset and is hyper organized in approach in delivering and managing operations.
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically yet maintain contact with day-to-day performance.
• Hands on with high energy, an entrepreneurial spirit, and a positive attitude.
• History of consistently meeting/exceeding targets and objectives personally and as a leader.
• Excellent presentation skills with a strong ability to present to senior-level executives.
• Ability to lead and drive multiple competing priorities and thrive in a fast paced and complex environment.

Kensington is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates.