At a Glance
- Tasks: Support partnerships and operations in a dynamic sports travel company.
- Company: Join a small, agile sports travel company with big growth ambitions.
- Benefits: £30,000 salary plus £5,000 bonus, flexible hybrid working, and career development.
- Other info: Work closely with the business owner in a supportive, entrepreneurial environment.
- Why this job: Make an impact by building relationships in the exciting world of sports travel.
- Qualifications: Experience in account management or customer-facing roles; passion for sport and travel is a plus.
Location: Purfleet, Essex / Hybrid Working
Salary: £30,000 per annum + Guaranteed £5,000 Annual Bonus
We are a specialist sports travel company that organises UK and international tours for schools, sports clubs, and professional teams. Although established within our sector, we remain a small, agile business with ambitious growth plans and a genuinely supportive culture. With only a handful of employees, every member of the team plays an important role in our success. This is an exciting opportunity to join us at a key stage of our growth and work directly alongside the business owner.
The Role
We are looking for an organised and relationship-focused Partnerships & Operations Coordinator to support the team. This is a varied role that combines account management, supplier relationship management, business support, and operational coordination. You will play a key role in maintaining relationships with our global network of partners whilst helping identify and develop new suppliers. The successful candidate will become a trusted member of a small team where initiative, communication, and attention to detail are highly valued.
Key Responsibilities
- Build and maintain strong relationships with existing international suppliers, partners, and tour operators.
- Act as a central point of contact to ensure key relationships remain active and engaged throughout the year.
- Research, identify, and onboard new suppliers and destination partners worldwide.
- Support the Managing Director with business coordination and day-to-day operational activities.
- Ensure effective communication between internal stakeholders and external partners.
- Attend industry events and trade shows when required.
- Maintain accurate records of supplier and partner communications.
- Support projects and operational requirements as the business continues to grow.
About You
- Previous experience in account management, relationship management, partnerships, operations, travel, hospitality, events, or a similar customer-facing role.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
- Highly organised with strong attention to detail.
- Comfortable working independently within a small business environment.
- Confident managing multiple priorities and building relationships with stakeholders at all levels.
- A genuine interest in sport, travel, or both would be highly advantageous.
- Positive, proactive, and eager to contribute to a growing business.
What's On Offer
- £30,000 basic salary.
- Guaranteed £5,000 annual bonus.
- Flexible hybrid working arrangement.
- Mix of office-based and home working.
- Opportunity to work directly with the business owner and influence company growth.
- Exposure to international sports travel projects.
- Long-term career development within a growing business.
- Friendly, supportive, and entrepreneurial working environment.
Partnerships & Operations Coordinator employer: Searley Owen
Join our dynamic and supportive team as a Partnerships & Operations Coordinator in Purfleet, Essex, where your contributions will directly impact our ambitious growth plans. Enjoy a competitive salary with a guaranteed annual bonus, flexible hybrid working arrangements, and the unique opportunity to work closely with the business owner on exciting international sports travel projects. We foster a friendly and entrepreneurial culture that values initiative and communication, providing ample opportunities for long-term career development in a small, agile environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Partnerships & Operations Coordinator
✨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 Searley Owen who are looking for fresh talent for roles like Partnerships & Operations Coordinator.
✨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 Searley Owen and give you a leg up for your Partnerships & Operations Coordinator 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 Partnerships & Operations Coordinator openings they might have. It's a bold move, but it might just pay off!
We think you need these skills to ace Partnerships & Operations Coordinator
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 Partnerships & Operations Coordinator role at Searley Owen.
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 Partnerships & Operations Coordinator position at Searley Owen.
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 Searley Owen.
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 Searley Owen's adventures. Share any unique perspectives or ideas you have to enhance the travel experience, especially as a full-time Partnerships & Operations Coordinator.
How to prepare for a job interview at Searley Owen
✨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 Searley Owen.
