At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the contracting strategy for Italy and manage supplier relationships.
- Company: Join Kirker Holidays, a leading specialist tour operator for Italy.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, travel opportunities, and a chance to work with passionate colleagues.
- Why this job: Combine your love for Italy with your expertise in travel to create unforgettable experiences.
- Qualifications: Experience in contracting, excellent communication skills, and a passion for Italian culture.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for travel and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
Kirker Holidays is looking to recruit a Product Manager â Italy to cover all aspects of Kirker's renowned Italy programme. This role needs an enthusiastic expert who has extensive knowledge of what a culturallyâinclined, discerning traveller needs from a specialist tour operator. The individual will require extensive knowledge of Italy and the hotels that meet Kirker's specification, especially independent properties that are able to provide clients with high levels of personal services and meticulous attention to detail.
Contract Management
- Lead Kirker's contracting strategy for Italy.
- Act as the key point of contact for suppliers (hotels, DMCs and transfer companies) regarding contracting and operational matters.
- Negotiate contracts with new and existing hotels including annual renewals and seasonal special offers.
- Liaise closely with the Managing Director, Reservations Manager and Marketing Manager to ensure that the company has marketâleading contracts.
- Visit suppliers in Italy on a regular basis to ensure expert, firstâhand knowledge of all aspects of Italian product.
- Arrange and participate in educational trips for colleagues and travel agents.
- Support the Kirker Cultural Tours & Music Holidays group programme.
- Maintain existing relationships and research new destinations & cultural highlights, as well as monitoring updates regarding refurbishment and new openings.
Key Tasks
- Negotiate contracts and successfully manage supplier relationships.
- Prepare, complete and load supplier contracts onto the booking system.
- Write accurate and effective brochure copy for print and digital media.
- Manage existing and new supplier relationships to ensure the company maximises commercial opportunities and maintains its reputation as the preeminent Italy specialist tour operator in the UK market and beyond.
- Communicate regularly and effectively with Reservations and Marketing teams.
- Travel regularly within Italy to meet in person with hotels and other suppliers to manage and develop commercial opportunities.
- Speak directly to clients and travel agents when the need arises.
- Monitor competitors' activities to ensure Kirker promotions reflect the latest offers.
The successful applicant will have:
- A wide experience in Contracting within a similar role and excellent product knowledge.
- A passion for Italy and Italian culture.
- Outstanding attention to detail.
- Excellent communication skills to ensure that colleagues, hoteliers and clients all recognise the individual in this role as a respected leader and inspirational, expert manager who is passionate and proud about the company they represent and the role they fulfil.
- An Italian speaker who has excellent written and spoken English.
Seniority level: MidâSenior level
Employment type: Fullâtime
Industries: Travel Arrangements
Product Manager Italy in London employer: Kirker Holidays
Contact Detail:
Kirker Holidays Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice đ¤Ť
We think this is how you could land Product Manager Italy in London
â¨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the travel industry, especially those who know Kirker Holidays. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that arenât even advertised.
â¨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for Italy! When you get the chance to speak with potential employers, share your experiences and knowledge about Italian culture and travel. Itâll set you apart as someone who truly understands the market.
â¨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching Kirkerâs current offerings and competitors. Being able to discuss their contracts and how you can enhance their Italy programme will show youâre serious about the role.
â¨Tip Number 4
Donât forget to apply through our website! Itâs the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our brand.
We think you need these skills to ace Product Manager Italy in London
Some tips for your application đŤĄ
Show Your Passion for Italy: When writing your application, let your love for Italy shine through! Share your experiences and knowledge about Italian culture, destinations, and the unique offerings that make it special. We want to see that youâre not just applying for a job, but that you genuinely care about what youâll be promoting.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in contracting and supplier management. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills and how they align with our needs at Kirker Holidays. We appreciate attention to detail, so donât skip this step!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless itâs relevant to the role. We want to understand your qualifications quickly, so make sure your key achievements stand out without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. Itâs the best way to ensure it gets into the right hands. Plus, youâll find all the details you need about the role and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kirker Holidays
â¨Know Your Italy Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Italy, especially the independent hotels and cultural highlights that align with Kirker's offerings. Being able to discuss specific locations, experiences, and what makes them unique will show your passion and expertise.
â¨Master the Art of Negotiation
Since the role involves negotiating contracts, prepare by reviewing common negotiation strategies. Think about how you can demonstrate your past successes in contract management and supplier relationships during the interview.
â¨Showcase Your Communication Skills
This position requires excellent communication with various teams and clients. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated in previous roles, especially in challenging situations. Highlight your ability to build relationships and inspire confidence.
â¨Be Ready for Cultural Insights
Kirker values a culturally inclined approach, so be prepared to discuss how you would enhance the travel experience for discerning clients. Share your thoughts on current trends in travel and how they relate to Italian culture, as well as any personal experiences that could enrich your perspective.