Sales and Itinerary Designer

JOB TITLE: Sales and Itinerary Designer DEPARTMENT: Sales REPORTS TO: Head of Sales Business Context: Operation Europe Ltd. is an established incoming tour operator, with over 35 years’ experience in operating fully customised special-interest group travel programmes across Europe and the UK. We are currently recruiting a Group Travel Designer to join our resolute and growing Sales team in our modern and airy canal-side offices in central London. The Role: The Group Travel Designer will be responsible for creating bespoke, cultural group touring programmes throughout the UK & Europe for B2B clients worldwide, for both students and professionals. The role will suit candidates with similar experience who thrive when working in a team, those who enjoy providing excellent customer service, even in challenging circumstances, and those who are able and willing to travel to client markets on sales missions. Key Responsibilities: * Consult directly with and provide sustained high-quality service to a global clientele as a member of the dedicated Group Travel Design Sales team. * Research, design and price innovative and original custom-made tours across Europe for special interest groups of all sizes, using regional knowledge and travel industry expertise, and recommending suitable alternatives or informed improvements to the original spec if required. * Negotiate rates with suppliers to ensure dynamic pricing. * Co-ordinate and travel on up to two solo sales missions per year (10-12 days per trip) to client markets to visit prospective and existing clientele, as well as attend travel shows and trade events throughout the year. * Work co-operatively and communicate effectively with your senior Sales team members and with colleagues in the Group Operations and Reservations departments to ensure a supportive working environment across the company and to foster a high-performance culture within the team. Person Profile: * Professional experience in the travel industry, preferably in group travel. * Educated to a university degree level, ideally in a relevant subject. * Full driving licence (held for over 24 months) and willingness to drive abroad essential. * Comprehensive knowledge of and keen interest in European geography, cities and culture. * Structured, diligent, and resourceful approach to work, with an initiative-taking work ethic and the ability to prioritise workloads, adapt to changing requirements and manage multiple tasks efficiently. * Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and with a keen attention to detail. * Knowledge of another Western European language will be advantageous, though not essential. What you can expect: * Competitive salary * Monday to Friday working week, with Hybrid working arrangements (following probation). * Generous bonus structure, eligibility following one year\’s service. * Opportunities to attend FAM trips in Europe and to travel to client markets for business. * A friendly, cooperative, and rewarding working environment