Collette is seeking Group Air Specialists to join our Air Team. This is a hybrid role based at our headquarters in Pawtucket, RI.
About Collette: Let Us Show You the World
There has never been a better time to be in the travel industry. See the world, connect with others, and experience immersive benefits when you join the Collette team! As the longest-running tour operator in North America, our family-owned business leads the industry in innovation and expertise. Collette's passionate team works hard to fulfill travel dreams and is always looking for talent that will help to shape the company's future. Being part of the Collette team means having a willingness to grow, a desire to learn and ask questions, and a zest for seeing the world. From giving back to local communities to creating incredible experiences for a world of travelers and being part of a value-oriented team that cares for one another - Collette is all about people. So, what are you waiting for? Your journey starts here.
Job Summary:
Reporting to the Group Supervisor, Air Operations, this role is responsible for securing air for all group passengers and maintaining all air reservations for all passengers booked on their specified tour series assigned by the Manager of Air Operations. The primary goal of a Group Air Specialist is to obtain the best possible air schedule for our clients while meeting the set profit margin for each program. The Specialist is expected to provide a timely turnaround of requests, with the objective of improving customer excellence.
Primary Functions:
Coordinate all air transportation for assigned tour series based on contracts and group pricing for all group passengers for assigned territories.
Request air group blocks for groups of 10 or more passengers using existing air contract or negotiating an Ad-Hoc Contract with a carrier with which we do not have contracts.
Some programs require an Air Series Block be requested once departure dates are set for that tour series. The Specialist will work with the Group Block Specialist and the Inventory Department to determine the number of seats and dates to request.
Groups of 10 or less must be booked live in a GDS using air contracts whenever possible.
Responsible for analyzing the air rate obtained and comparing the group pricing to ensure the expected profit margin, driven by the optimal air schedule pricing model. Offer alternatives when the best schedule does not meet this pricing model.
Maintain air schedules for all passengers booked with air on their tour series. This includes and not limited to ensuring all seat requests are confirmed and meet customer expectations/preferences, submit all special requests, and work all schedule changes to be sure connections are legal and still meet requirements of the tour series.
Handle any air emergencies while traveler is on tour whenever air needs to be altered.
Release all air group blocks by deadline set by each carrier. This includes tracking all air blocks for profitability and utilization purposes.
Proof air manifest 50 days prior to departure, to ensure that names, schedules, seat assignments, and special needs have been sent correctly to the airline carrier prior to ticketing for all passengers booked on their tour series.
Research all service issues and determine the best action for recovery resolution and report back to the Manager.
Responsible for covering emergencies on pre-scheduled Saturdays/Holidays throughout the year.
Knowledge and Skills:
Bachelor's degree preferred, but not necessary.
Two years' experience in air operations preferred.
Skill in customer service
Knowledge of air operations, quality control procedures and reporting documentation requirements.
Knowledge of a GDS system (Sabre, Amadeus) preferred, but not required.
Microsoft Office program experience
Ability to work as part of a Team environment.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Ability to organize, prioritize, and schedule work assignments.
Ability to foster a cooperative work environment.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
Ability to create, compose and edit written materials.
Ability to plan and organize to optimize productivity.
Ability to analyze and solve problems.
Perform special projects and other related duties as assigned or directed by the VP of Operations, Manager of Air Operations, and Group Supervisor.
Maintain assigned work area in a safe and orderly condition in accordance with company standards. Comply with all company rules and regulations.