Operations Specialist

Abercrombie & Kent • Downers Grove, IL

12d • $50 - $57

About The Position

Position Summary The Operations Specialist executes complex, luxury itineraries for the Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group, ensuring exceptional service and the seamless delivery of unforgettable experiences. The Operations Specialist upholds the highest standards of performance and quality.

Requirements

• Exceptionally detail-oriented
• Meticulously and unfailingly organized, precise, and orderly
• Exceptional at prioritizing and managing time, highly structured and efficient
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to multitask and anticipate logistical obstacles and complications
• Fundamental knowledge of mathematics and accounting principles
• Highly Skilled in Interpersonal Communication and Team Collaboration
• Proven ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team environment
• Strong judgment and effective problem-solving abilities
• Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office and the ability to quickly adapt to new technologies
• Proficient in reading, writing, and speaking English
• Associate or bachelor’s degree preferred or equivalent experience
• Two years of overall experience in the travel industry, indicating a solid foundation in travel operations and customer service
• Prior experience in operations within the travel industry is required. This includes managing logistics, reservations, and ensuring the smooth execution of travel plans
• Knowledge of geographic, cultural, and natural history in key destinations, including the Northern Rockies, Southwest, Pacific Northwest, California, Alaska, Hawaii, British Columbia, Alberta, and eastern Canada, with flexibility in learning new destinations as the USA Canada DMC expands
• Availability for evening and weekend hours may occasionally be required
• Domestic & International travel may be required (please maintain a current passport)

Nice To Haves

• Foreign language skills preferred (Spanish, French, German & Portuguese)

Responsibilities

• Organize and maintain itineraries and trip details to ensure operational excellence
• Confirm and manage reservations with various suppliers, including lodging partners, guides, activity providers, and transportation companies
• Edit final itinerary documents for TOC Travel Consultants and create eDocs for use by Travel Advisors
• Facilitate and track payments to suppliers
• Reconcile each component of a booking to ensure all financials are accounted for and provide necessary information to the accounting team
• Adhere to Standard Operating Procedures for every journey, including guide notes, reconfirmations, run-of-shows, ePhone notes, and closing bookings
• Maintain open and continuous communication with Travel Consultants (DMC & TOC) and Travel Advisors to ensure alignment at all times
• Coordinate with the Product and Travel Consultant teams to communicate any changes in journey elements related to booking procedures or financials
• Explore and generate innovative ideas for creating unique and authentic experiences
• Continuously seek opportunities to improve operational excellence
• Collaborate with teammates to share destination knowledge and operational best practices
• Travel to destinations to meet with suppliers and gather new ideas for experiences and itineraries
• Participate in rotational emergency phone duty (requires one week of on-call nights and weekends) as assigned – up to 6 annually

Benefits

• A&K offers a large portfolio of competitive benefits to all eligible, full-time employees.
• Some benefits are provided at no cost to the employee, such as group life insurance, short-term and long-term disability, and travel discounts.
• Other elective benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, supplemental life insurance, pre-tax healthcare and dependent FSAs, and a 401(k) plan with a generous company match.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees