Travel Agency Manager
Travel agency managers plan, organize, direct, and control the operations of travel-related organizations. They also coordinate and direct the activities of staff, overseeing not only the day-to-day tasks, but the hiring, training, and evaluating of staff members as well. Agency managers may also research new products and destinations, often by traveling to them and experiencing firsthand the services available.
Duties
- Use operations management skills, such as establishing work plans and objectives
- Use financial management skills, such as overseeing budget
- Manage human resources, such as hiring and training staff
- Use sales and marketing skills, such as determining potential markets
- Coordinate merchandising functions through retail buyers
- Research new products
Experience
Strong written and verbal communication skills are necessary, as are proven sales and marketing abilities. Organizational, customer service, human resource management, and planning and financial management skills are all required. In addition, marketing and selling skills, research skills, travel and/or management experience, and strong leadership and team-building skills are also important. Time and risk management skills, as well as a second language, are assets in this position.
Education
A secondary school diploma is required, as is several years of related retail sales experience with increasing levels of responsibility. A diploma or degree in tourism, business, or management may be necessary. Certification as a Certified Travel Manager (CTM), provided by the Association of Canadian Travel Agencies (ACTA), may also be required.