AdresseVirtuoso® is the leading global travel agency network specializing in luxury and experiential travel. This by-invitation-only organization comprises over 1,200 travel agency locations with 20,000 travel advisors in 50 countries throughout North America, Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Middle East. Drawing upon its preferred relationships with more than 2,200 of the world’s best hotels and resorts, cruise lines, airlines, tour companies and premier destinations, the network provides its upscale clientele with exclusive amenities, rare experiences and privileged access. Normalized annual sales of (U.S.) $25-$30 billion make Virtuoso a powerhouse in the luxury travel industry. For more information, visit www.virtuoso.com.
The General Manager (GM) - Europe will oversee Virtuoso’s global operations in market. The role is responsible for the regional business plan that consists of our regional playbook, budget and agreed key performance indicators. Responsibility includes the strategic design, implementation, and communication and GMs are held accountable for overall market performance. The ideal candidate will be based in Continental Europe.
Virtuoso has complimentary goals of driving global consistency and delivering regional relevancy, these objectives are harmonized by the GM in cooperation with the Virtuoso leadership team. The GM must have a keen understanding of the market including cultural, political, and structural characteristics. In addition to business direction, budgetary and economic outlooks are key areas of focus. As such, the GM should be extremely capable in finance management and team leadership.
International GM’s localize the business strategy and oversee specific roles within a matrix structure. Account management and Marketing/Product management roles will report directly to the GM (divisional team members will report under the matrix system where it is expected that GM will deliberate with other global management using the matrix procedures and protocols).
This is an executive position that manages the in-market team. It will be the GM’s responsibility to ensure employees and business practices conform to country, regional and international regulations. Decision-making, communication, and leadership skills are essential for the success of international management staff. This role is a key member of Global Operations and the Virtuoso leadership team. This role plays a critical link between in market execution and interdepartmental synergies.
Essential duties and responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
- Design and stewardship of regional business plan – playbook and budget.
- Collaborate with Virtuoso departments to develop annual strategies for optimization of revenues, brand equity and margin.
- Work directly with Virtuoso divisions to ensure relevance and quality of the Virtuoso value proposition.
- Provide coverage for vacant roles in the regional matrix.
- Assist in commercial negotiations.
- Identify potential partners.
- Collaboration and communication with executive teams.
- Analyze and communicate competitive context.
- Operate as the brand ambassador in market and be the on-the-ground reference point for Virtuoso.
- Provide local market intelligence.
- Ensure team development aligned with the Virtuoso culture and values
- Delivery of key performance metrics as outlined in the Business plan
Educational and Skills Requirements:
- Tertiary Qualifications in relevant field
- Innovation – Forward thinking, curious and creative
- Solution Orientated – Ability to identify issues and provide solutions
- Leadership – Ability to lead people or projects
- Marketplace Expertise – Current business trend knowledge
- Analytical Skills (Advanced) – Ability to collect and analyze complex information, problem solve, and make decisions
- Collaboration – Strong skills in inspiring the win-win-win
- Self-starter – Ability to work independently
- Profile in market in line with expectation
- Proven track record of success in the industry
- Expertise and experience in negotiations
- Experience contributing at a senior level to team performance
- Communication and leadership capabilities
- Strong project management skills
- Excellent presentation skills
- Interpersonal skills
- Work history reflecting strong leadership skills, ability to lead and motivate
- Results orientated
- Strong quality service attitude and approach
- Self-motivated
- Champion of company brand
Travel Requirements:
- Travel is required. Approximately 35%+ of time for this role will be spent travelling, visiting members, attending events, member conferences, and team meetings.
- Travel will be primarily domestic but may include some international.
Type/Nature of Contacts:
- External: Majority of time spent in market with Members and Partners.
- Internal: This role supervises and supports the entire market team. Key job contacts are primarily with director level staff and above outside of the job’s immediate work unit/department.
Virtuoso is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to promoting a diverse workforce.
