The changing role of the travel manager
Company travel has two very significant aspects within any organization. On the one hand, its economic impact on the income statement and, on the other, its influence on the degree of traveler satisfaction. This dichotomy leads to a balance between savings and travel quality.
The travel manager is the hinge between the two interests that, depending on each company and at the moment in which it is, can tip the balance to one side or the other.
In short, the travel manager's profile is evolving from more operational tasks towards strategic responsibilities, which implies leading technology projects and incorporating new purchasing categories within the travel policy.
This change of role is perceived in itsrecognition, both inside and outside the company, even internationally, as more and more Spanish companies have the figure of the global travel manager.
In other markets, the name of this position has changed to mobility manager to reflect its new functions, beyond transportation or accommodation. Another skill that travel managers are incorporating is event management.
Until a few years ago, companies used the technology offered to them by their direct suppliers, but did not contract licenses directly with the developers. The clearest case has been that of the author-reservation tools. However, this situation is changing. Companies are working with two or more agencies, making it unmanageable to implement, maintain and work with as many tools as there are intermediaries.
Companies are also seeking closer ties with technology partners to gain a better understanding of trends and expected developments, according to feedback from Forum Business Travel focus groups.
As a result of all this, according to the reasoning of the professionals consulted, the travel manager needs to be more trained for the future that is coming to their own work environments. Within this corporate culture, it cannot be overlooked that their internal customer is twofold: on the one hand, the management and, on the other, the traveler, to whom they have to make life as easy as possible.