Senior Travel Operations Manager

Job Listing: Senior Travel Operations Manager

At Sodexo Live!, we take pride in crafting exceptional events at the most prestigious venues on the planet and creating lasting memories for fans, visitors, guests and team members. Working with Sodexo Live! is more than a job; it's a chance to be part of something greater. Here, you'll build a career where 'everyday' is anything but normal.

Our experiences are unique, and so are our people. Bring your personality, your background and your desire to delight others. In return, we'll give you all you need to thrive. After giving it all, you'll return home knowing that you've played your part in creating a truly unforgettable moment.

Location: We are seeking an experienced Senior Travel Operations Manager at Sodexo Live! This is a remote position.

Principal Function:

The Senior Travel Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing the coordination, planning, and execution of travel-related logistics for our 60+ traveling operation leaders for large-scale events and mobilization teams for new business units. This role requires a detail-oriented professional who can efficiently manage complex travel assignments, people management, budgets, expenses, payroll and contract management, ensuring that all travel arrangements meet company standards, timelines, and budget constraints.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Oversee end-to-end logistics for traveling operations, including the full employee lifecycle-hiring, onboarding, performance management, and career development of travel team employees. Act as a strategic liaison to ensure the team aligns with company standards, budget constraints, and project timelines
• Organize and manage all logistics for travel team employees, including flights, accommodations, transportation, and ground services.
• Work closely with internal stakeholders (HR, Operations, Finance, etc.) to understand travel requirements and policies.
• Evaluate travel options to identify cost-effective solutions while maintaining company quality standards.
• Source, negotiate, and maintain relationships with travel vendors (airlines, hotels, car rental companies, etc.), including contracts.
• Ensure vendor contracts are up to date and compliant with company policies and travel budgets.
• Develop and manage complex budgets across multiple projects, ensuring alignment with financial goals. Monitor expenditures closely and provide regular financial updates to senior leadership.
• Provide on-the-ground support during travel, handling any issues that may arise, such as cancellations, delays, or changes in plans.
• Provide leadership and rapid problem-solving to address unexpected travel issues, cancellations, or logistical changes that impact team performance and client satisfaction
• Prepare regular updates and reports on travel schedules, budgets, and logistics to senior management.
• Define clear roles, goals, and expectations for team members to align their work with company objectives.
• Ensure that any personal requests or issues related to payroll are resolved efficiently and promptly.
• Manage and process travel team payroll and expenses.

Qualifications/Skills:

• 5+ years of experience in hospitality food + beverage operations management, travel management, logistics coordination, and project management. Specifically, in an operations management role.
• Experience managing travel programs for large groups (60+ people) and coordinating complex logistics in corporate or large-scale event environments.
• Proven relationship management and team motivation capabilities and desire.
• Familiarity with advanced travel management software and booking systems (e.g., Concur, Smartsheet's, Egencia) is preferred.
• Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing priorities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Knowledge of travel regulations, visa requirements, and global destinations.
• Venue management.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a plus.

Other Requirements:

• This role may require occasional travel to meet with vendors and manage on-site logistics for events.

Thank you for expressing interest in employment with Sodexo Live!. While only those candidates considered for this position will be contacted, your resume will remain on file for 90 days.

Sodexo Live! is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, genetic information, status as a protected veteran or status as a qualified individual with a disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable Federal, State or Local law.