About the Role

A well-established London-based B2B tour operator specialising in group travel across Europe is seeking an experienced Purchasing Manager with a strong focus on hotel contracting and ground services in French-speaking territories.

This role is pivotal in ensuring cost-effective, high-quality accommodation and travel services for international group clients. The successful candidate will manage supplier relationships, negotiate hotel contracts, and support the smooth delivery of complex group itineraries.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead hotel contracting and purchasing activities for group travel programmes
• Negotiate rates, allocations, and terms with hotel suppliers across Europe (predominantly French-speaking territories)
• Build and maintain strong relationships with senior-level service providers
• Monitor availability, pricing, and supplier performance
• Analyse market trends to inform purchasing strategies
• Ensure purchasing activity aligns with budgets and company policies
• Maintain accurate procurement records and contracts
• Collaborate closely with operations, sales, and finance teams
• Support wider purchasing and operational needs as required

Skills & Experience Required

• Minimum 5 years' experience in travel, tourism, or hospitality
• Proven negotiation experience within the hotel industry
• Existing contacts within the hotel and tourism sector
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to meet tight deadlines
• Tenacious, results-driven approach with sound commercial judgement
• High level of attention to detail and strong problem-solving ability
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• Fluent in English and French (additional languages an advantage)
• Confident IT skills, including Excel and Microsoft Office
• Minimum A-levels or equivalent

Personal Attributes

• Flexible team player willing to support other departments
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
• Professional, proactive, and commercially minded

What's Offered

• Opportunity to join a respected and growing group travel specialist
• Competitive salary depending on experience
• Key role with autonomy and influence over purchasing strategy
• Long-term career progression as the business evolves

To Apply:
Please submit your CV (cover letter optional) to Michael@traveltraderecruitment.co.uk. All applications will be handled in strict confidence. Only suitable candidates will be contacted.