The Commercial Systems (GDS) Assistant Manager is responsible for working with Head of e-Commerce to oversee and manage the selection, implementation, integration, optimization of global distribution systems like Amadeus, Sabre, Travelport etc. Ideal candidate should have in depth knowledge of commercial systems from revenue management, Passenger service systems (PSS) like Navitaire, Amadues and had demonstrated successful track record of managing mid and large scale GDS implementations as well as rationalization of PSS contracts.
Key Responsibilities
- Define and execute the overall GDS Strategy
- Lead the implementation and integration of GDS such as Amadues, Sabre, Travelport etc.
- Optimize the usage of GDS functionality to improve efficiency and maximize revenue opportunities.
- Leverage expertise in Navitaire to ensure seamless integration of other commercial systems through the implementation.
- Oversee the contract management and continuous rationalization of commercial system contracts.
- Negotiate contracts, manage relationships to establish harmonious partner landscape to stay abreast of industry updates.
- Coordinate any new technology onboarding, implementation such as upgrades, enhancements in collaboration with relevant stakeholders like IT, Revenue accounting, operations, other stakeholders in commercial team.
- Ensure all commercial revenue generating systems are up to date with state-of-the-art eco system for competitive advantage.
- Excellent project management and coordination for timely closure of integrations, enhancements and new product onboardings.
- Working closely with IT teams to address technical issues and ensure system reliability.
- Collaborate with operations team, Navitaire/airline operations for regulatory compliance.
- Active Co-design of innovative digital solutions alongside ecommerce product teams and IT.
- Ensure all system settings are up to date and fully support operational and commercial objectives and policies.
- Evaluate and select suitable commercial solutions for the a forementioned requirements in the subject areas of the product information, GDS, Passenger Service System etc.
- Risk and Impact Analysis identify and work with target dependencies and constraints.
- Prepare business cases and detailed financial analysis for all new initiatives.
- Benchmark of commercial systems against key travel service competitors identify strengths, gaps and opportunities.
- Work effectively to support project timelines for the implementation of new products and services.
- Optimize return on investment on GDS/PSS by regularly reviewing service usage and proposing adjustments to contracted terms.
- Utilize industry knowledge, relationships, and experience to architect solutions to common problems, particularly of a local or regional nature.
- Contribute to Commercial team objectives and KPIs.
- Manage relationships with third party suppliers and ensure ongoing delivery of SLAs as well as driving new product implementation.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant field / master's degree Preferred.
- 5+ years of experience in the airline industry and at least one (1) year GDS implementation in Full service /LCC airline.
- Experience with core airline reservation systems.
- Experience working with the Navitaire Passenger Service System solution.
- Preference of experience with Navitaire Newskies or Amadeus.
- Experience working within the Middle Eastern market.
- Advanced knowledge of commercial systems like GDS/PSS contracts.
- Fluent in information technology and cutting-edge commercial applications.
- Familiar with analytics and reporting.
- Practical knowledge of ROI optimization on large scale contracts.
