Director, Channel Optimization and Distribution Strategy

IHG•Atlanta, GA

4d•$100,000 - $165,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Director of Channel Optimization and Distribution Strategy is responsible for shaping the multi-year strategy for our strategic third-party partners within the region. This role is essential for driving revenue growth by supporting the region in optimizing the channel mix to achieve top-line revenue goals. This role involves implementing cutting-edge strategies to enhance internal and external relationships to improve performance and support IHG's Book Direct Strategy. The Director will set a strategic direction and monitor the annual performance of IHG’s Intermediary Channels. Additionally, this position manages the implementation of Distribution Strategic initiatives, ensuring alignment with regional strategies. By fostering collaboration within the team and leveraging your expertise, you will guide the connectivity roadmap that propels our company forward. You play a vital role in shaping the future trajectory of our business.

Requirements

Strong client and relationship management skills, with the ability to communicate effectively, solve complex problems, negotiate commercial agreements, and operate independently
Proven negotiation expertise, including structuring and closing mutually beneficial agreements with strategic partners
Demonstrated knowledge of the travel industry and distribution channels, with the ability to think strategically and manage complex, global, high potential OTA accounts
Excellent interpersonal and cross functional collaboration skills, with the ability to influence and engage diverse stakeholders
Proficiency in MS Office applications, including Excel, PowerPoint, and Word
Strong knowledge of IHG, including its products, brands, and marketing programs
Demonstrated project management experience, managing large-scale initiatives from planning through execution
Ability to lead stakeholder engagement and presentations, taking an active role with key internal partners
Skilled in setting goals and performance targets, ensuring timely delivery of projects and initiatives

Responsibilities

Serve as a senior business leader to lead development of brand strategies, annual business plans and 3–5-year strategic plans to strengthen the brand positioning and commercial objectives.
Develop and nurture strong relationships with strategic third-party distribution partners (e.g., OTAs, wholesalers, connectivity partners, and other key channel partners)
Responsible for negotiating favorable contract terms and managing the planning and implementation of the contracting process
Identify new industry trends, new ways of working with Intermediaries in the regional market that can help drive incremental business to the region
Lead the proactive identification and prospecting of potential Intermediaries, conducting thorough assessments to ensure their alignment with our brands and market strategy to strategically expand our distribution network to increase revenues.
Support the region to optimize channel mix to drive top-line revenue goals.
Initiate cross-channel education for both internal stakeholders and hotel levels.
Initiate tools and levers for hotels to drive their channel performance.
Support rate parity and compliance across the region.
Manage the implementation of Distribution Strategic initiatives, ensuring alignment with regional strategies.
Set a strategic direction and monitor the annual performance of IHG’s Intermediary Channels.