Event Air Manager

ITA Group Inc•Des Moines, IA

About The Position

The Event Air Manager (EAM) serves as the lead for all air travel planning and execution for group travel programs and events. In this role, you are responsible for booking, ticketing, and managing airline travel for both event attendees and internal team members. You act as the primary point of contact for all air-related needs - helping participants navigate their travel, handling special requests or itinerary changes, and ensuring a smooth overall experience. You’ll also represent the air travel function in client and internal meetings, providing guidance and helping others understand the complexities of airline planning and logistics. In addition to managing the travel experience, the EAM oversees the air budget for each program. This includes tracking costs, providing regular updates throughout the planning process, and supporting final financial reconciliation after the event.

Requirements

Minimum five years air ticketing experience is preferred.
Domestic and international air knowledge.
Knowledge and familiarization of travel destinations.
Strong knowledge of geography.
General travel reservation knowledge, for booking personal extension travel.
Ability to understand and apply fare rules and airline contracts.
Ability to interact professionally and positively with a varying group of internal and external customers.
Strong problem-solving skills.
Monitoring and managing spend to budget.
Ability to work independently and also as part of a team.
Strong organization and time management skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Working knowledge of airline ticketing systems (TravelPort+ experience preferred) and Microsoft365 Tools.
Ability to listen, understand and respond, with excellent customer service, to external and internal customers’ needs in an efficient manner.
Ability to work the time necessary to complete projects and/or meet deadlines.

Nice To Haves

Travel degree preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Booking, ticketing, and managing airline travel for event attendees and internal team members.
Serving as the primary point of contact for all air-related needs.
Helping participants navigate their travel, handling special requests or itinerary changes.
Ensuring a smooth overall air travel experience.
Representing the air travel function in client and internal meetings.
Providing guidance and helping others understand airline planning and logistics.
Overseeing the air budget for each program.
Tracking air travel costs.
Providing regular updates on air travel planning.
Supporting final financial reconciliation after the event.