Head of Account Manager

The Role:Responsible for growing and maximising the business sector of the group in line with the Company’s strategy. Provide senior management support in developing and growing the Travel Management brandCompile sales/revenue budgets in conjunction with the Head of Client ServicesEnsure that the customer profitability (revenues) is in line with business expectations. Consider the overall strategic impact and value of pursuing particular clients within the Government sectorDiscuss and implement new initiatives in conjunction with the SVP/MD, Finance Director and relevant Head-level managementTogether with Business Development and Finance, streamline and simplify payment processes with Government clients. Minimise poor payment issues and reduce bad debt and similar challenges within this divisionUnderstand & communicate potential long-term effect of political legislation, economic and market changes and prepare the Company and customers for impact of these changesEnsure that all client servicing is conducted in line with the Company's Code of Business ConductLiaise with Marketing and Communications in developing and honing the brand. This may in time develop into exploring expanding the brand outside of the South African marketActing as the Brand ambassador for the business. Will be expected to represent the Company at a senior level with strategic clients, together with the relevant Shareholders of the CompanyEngage in key or targeted client activities e.g. training seminars and client eventsMaintain and develop excellent relationships with key customers based on the 80/20 rule i.e. pay special and personal attention to clients that generate 80% of our revenue. Be an active "player" in such customer retentionConstantly develop and improve customer presentations and materialEstablish and develop strong relationships with all internal personnel associated with portfolio of accounts (Client Services, Finance, Marketing, Yield Management etc.)Attend regular monthly product presentations, Finance & Administration and Client Services meetings as and when requiredProvide the SVP/MD, Finance Director and Group Leadership with any ad hoc reports when requestedAccountable for:SLA revision with clientsRecruitment, training and retention of staff within the division (in association with the relevant Shared Service departments)ReportingExploration of international markets – should this occurHigh value write-offs EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:Relevant degree. Preference will be given to commercial qualifications.GDS or TMC-specific qualifications - very advantageous5 to 10 years’ experience in Travel Management (Travel Industry)5 years’ management experienceExcellent experience dealing with Government SectorOTHER REQUIREMENTS:Strong processes and procedures. Role will include revising these as needed for the brandOngoing awareness of changes in relevant legislation and regulations. This may require subscription to Government Gazettes and similar publicationsAn excellent command of the English language - verbal and writtenSector awareness – specifically within South African government or related environmentsAwareness of appropriate legislation regarding state-owned and parastatal payments and credit processesExcellent relationship building skills with strong commercial awarenessSales and business development is a strong part of this positionManaging a variety of complex issues, both internally and externallyMust possess a great deal of stamina to maintain frequent evening and weekend work in the process of building strong relationships with our customers and suppliersMust be able to work as part of a team with a positive attitude to external and internal forces