Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) is an independent, ever-evolving philanthropy that supports basic biomedical scientists and educators with the potential for transformative impact. We make long-term investments in people, not just projects, because WE BELIEVE IN THE POWER OF INDIVIDUALS TO MAKE BREAKTHROUGHS OVER TIME. HHMI scientists have radically advanced the understanding of cells, the brain, the immune system, the development of organs, and how to treat many diseases. Founded in 1953 by aviator and industrialist Howard R. Hughes, HHMI is headquartered in Chevy Chase, Maryland, and employs more than 2,500 people across the U.S.
At HHMI, you are not just an employee – you are a part of a creative and talented team with colleagues whose expertise ranges from biomedical research to investment management, from information technology to law. We encourage collaborative and results-driven working styles and offer an adaptable environment WHERE EMPLOYEES CAN FUNCTION AT THEIR HIGHEST LEVEL. As HHMI scientists continue to push boundaries in laboratories and classrooms, you can be sure that your contributions while working at HHMI are making a difference.
SUMMARY:
The Senior Travel Counselor will provide top-quality travel arrangements and customer service at HHMI’s on-site Travel Services department. This individual will research, schedule, and coordinate travel arrangements and services for clients consistent with established policies. They will ensure reservations for air travel, car rentals, sedan services, overnight accommodations, and meeting-related matters are accurate and itineraries, tickets, and instructions are sent to clients on a timely basis. The Senior Counselors will analyze travel services provided by vendors and recommend changes as appropriate.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Research, schedule, and coordinate travel arrangements and services for air travel, car rentals, sedan services, housing accommodations, and meeting related matters.
- Ensure reservations are accurate and that itineraries, tickets, and instructions are sent to travelers on a timely basis. Assist with changes at client’s request.
- Understand client’s needs and issues and ensure that clients are completely satisfied. Handle client’s issues promptly and effectively. Ensure that information relevant to serving clients requests is shared with direct reports.
- Follow all established guidelines for executive services when applicable.
- Suggest new procedures necessary to operate a proficient travel department.
- Coordinate seamless operation between Travel Services, Conference Services and Meeting coordinators. Adheres to meeting travel timelines to ensure meetings travel bookings completion. Attends logistics meetings as needed. Create, update, and provide reports for meeting coordinators. Utilizes, maintains and provides support for registration system: Certain.
- Manage and maintain hotel rooming lists and arrival /departure lists. Update and monitor daily changes. Understand attrition guidelines and cancellation penalties as they pertain to a hotel contract.
- Provide support and assistance with Concur Expense and Travel Management System. Assist travelers with password resets, navigation through system and issues with travel bookings.
- Utilize and stay updated with all travel technology offered to adhere to security protocol and ensure travel bookings quality and best pricing (e.g. Travelport Apollo, Smart Point, Rezone Plus, Hotel and Travel Index, latest top travel industry websites).
QUALIFICATIONS
Education:
- High School graduate required; Bachelor’s degree preferred
- CTC certification a plus
EXPERIENCE:
- Minimum five years of VIP and International Ticketing related experience
- Minimum five years of experience with domestic and international faring and ticketing procedures
- Must be proficient with Travelport Apollo or Sabre GDS
SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills and the ability to effectively interface with clients, employees, and vendors. A cooperative attitude and a positive demeanor.
- Excellent customer service and detail-oriented skills.
- Ability to work well and multi-task well under pressure.
- Cooperative, self-motivated, flexible, patient, and able to solve problems.
- Thorough understanding of ARC ticketing and security procedures.
- Ability to display and encourage teamwork.
- Must be able to make decisions with minimal supervision, and to work extra hours when needed.
- Proficiency with Microsoft office Excel and Word.
HHMI IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.
Required Skills
Required Experience