Purchasing Manager

Responsible for all supplier negotiations concentrating on large revenue suppliers in particular with a scope of 30-35 tour series programs across multiple global regions. Negotiate rates in a positive persuasive manner to meet Cost of Sale goals. When appropriate, and in conjunction with Product Manager, seek alternate suppliers. Where assigned, act as lead contact for corporate or regional supplier representatives. Accuracy of supplier pricing, supplier service requirements and analysis of received bids is an important part of the process in driving successful negotiations. Responsible to meet all deadlines listed in the Product Planning & Pricing Calendar.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Costing Controls and Review: Develop and maintain cost assurance procedures, Contract Guidelines and reporting mechanisms to ensure accuracy, consistency and integrity of all products costing.
• Work closely with Product Manager to ensure all details of tour programs are captured in bids along withgetting a better understanding of each tour program.
• Negotiate all supplier contracts in collaboration with Product Manager for respective region to meet Cost ofSale and Capacity Goals. Facilitates and drives the analytical support for negotiations.
• Maintain, in collaboration with Product Mangers, superior supplier relationships throughout negotiations,routine activities, supplier visitations and industry events.
• Work closely with Product Managers to ensure supplier selection is aligned with Brand Standards.
• Participate in the Contract and Bids process along with chasing and tracking for all TOP (large revenue)Suppliers – Hotel (incl. pre/post), Ships, Transportation and Destination Management Companies withinassigned region.
• Successfully participate in following the Product Planning calendar and meet all deadlines. Responsibility tomaintain team cohesiveness and collaboration throughout the process with Product Managers.
• Where assigned, act as lead contact for large corporate or regional supplier representatives including facilitatingall meetings and activities, communication and strategic planning across the department.
• Conduct ongoing market and trade research to support in contracting discussions.
• Work to limit overall company liability through acceptance of contract terms/conditions, ensure minimalupfront payments and cash flows, collection of supplier insurance policies and verification of suitable coverageamounts. Generate all pre/post stay pricing across all tours.

SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelors Degree in a business discipline and/or equivalent applicable experience
• 3-5 years of experience in contract negotiation (preferably in hospitality or similar industry)
• Successful project operations experience in the travel/hospitality industries.
• Ability to travel
• Financial and/or accounting experience in a multi-product line
• Able to be a major contributor in a team based environment
• PC literacy in a Windows based-environment and demonstrated advanced skills in Microsoft Excel
• Superior supplier relationship skills
• Exceptional oral and written business communications skills to communicate the Tauck Brand.

Tauck is recognized as a world leader in deluxe escorted vacation tours; a fast growing company in a thriving industry. We offer more than 150 intriguing, all-inclusive vacations to the most popular worldwide destinations. These creative itineraries, with spectacular sightseeing and premium accommodations, are carefully choreographed to create enriching experiences and enlighten travelers interested in high quality, cultural vacations.