At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex negotiations for pilot agreements and workforce arrangements.
- Company: Join Virgin Atlantic Airways, aiming to be the most loved travel company.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to shape the future of our pilot workforce.
- Why this job: Influence high-profile decisions and build trusted relationships in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in industrial relations and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Description
Location: Hybrid - VHQ in Crawley, West Sussex or Heathrow Airport – hybrid working policy 3 days onsite
- Contract
- Type: Fixed Term 6 months with the potential for an extension
- Closing
- Date: 24th July
At Virgin Atlantic Airways, we believe that everyone can take on the world, and it's our vision to become the most loved travel company.
As we embark on this next exciting stage of our journey, we're harnessing our spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation to challenge the status quo.
In a nutshell
As our Lead Pilot Negotiator, you'll be the lead industrial relations specialist for the Flight Operations pilot community, leading complex negotiations that shape the future of our pilot workforce.
Working with senior leaders and recognised trade union representatives, you'll develop negotiation strategies, provide expert advice and help deliver commercially balanced, legally compliant outcomes that support both our people and our operation.
This is a unique opportunity to influence high-profile workforce decisions while building trusted relationships across Virgin Atlantic.
Day to day
As our Lead Pilot Negotiator, you will
Lead complex negotiations relating to pilot collective agreements and workforce arrangements.
- Develop negotiation strategies and bargaining proposals that support Flight Operations objectives.#
- Provide specialist industrial relations advice on workforce initiatives, organisational change and employment matters.
- Build trusted relationships with recognised trade union representatives and senior stakeholders.
- Assess the operational, commercial and financial impact of negotiation proposals, providing clear recommendations.
- Support the modernisation of collective agreements to ensure they remain fit for the future.
- Help resolve complex workforce issues through collaborative engagement and constructive dialogue.
- Keep up to date with employment legislation and industrial relations best practice.#
About You
We're looking for an experienced industrial relations professional who thrives in complex, unionised environments and enjoys influencing positive business outcomes through collaboration, negotiation and sound judgement.
- In addition to the above, we'd love for our successful candidate to demonstrate:
- Significant experience leading complex negotiations.
- Extensive industrial and employee relations experience.
- Strong understanding of employment legislation and industrial relations practice.
- Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills.
- Commercial awareness and strategic thinking.
- Strong analytical and decision-making capability.
- Outstanding communication and relationship-building skills.
If this sounds like you, and you would like to unlock your potential with us, we would love to hear from you!
Lead - Negotiator in Crawley employer: Virgin Atlantic
Virgin Atlantic is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and teamwork thrive. With a commitment to employee growth, the company provides extensive training opportunities and a supportive culture that values safety and excellence in aircraft maintenance. Located in London, employees enjoy a vibrant city life alongside a competitive benefits package, making it a rewarding place to build a career in aviation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead - Negotiator in Crawley
✨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 Virgin Atlantic who are looking for fresh talent for roles like Lead - Negotiator.
✨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 Virgin Atlantic and give you a leg up for your Lead - Negotiator 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 Lead - Negotiator openings they might have. It's a bold move, but it might just pay off!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead - Negotiator 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 Lead - Negotiator role at Virgin Atlantic.
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 Lead - Negotiator position at Virgin Atlantic.
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 Virgin Atlantic.
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 Virgin Atlantic's adventures. Share any unique perspectives or ideas you have to enhance the travel experience, especially as a full-time Lead - Negotiator.
How to prepare for a job interview at Virgin Atlantic
✨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 Virgin Atlantic.
