Travel & Hospitality Lead - BAL

Position Summary/Justification

The Travel and Hospitality Director for the Basketball Africa League (BAL) will be responsible for overseeing and managing all travel, accommodation, and hospitality logistics for league events, teams, executives, and stakeholders.

Major Responsibilities

Travel Management:

• Oversee the planning and coordination of all travel arrangements, including flights, ground transportation, and visas for players, coaching staff, officials, and executives.
• Ensure cost-effective travel planning while maintaining the highest standards of comfort and efficiency.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with travel agencies, airlines, and transportation service providers.
• Monitor travel logistics to respond quickly to changes or emergencies during events.

Accommodation Coordination:

• Lead the negotiation and management of hotel contracts for teams, staff, and VIP guests during BAL games and events.
• Ensure the quality of accommodations meets the standards of the league and creates a positive experience for all participants.
• Coordinate with hotel management to arrange for meeting spaces, amenities, and hospitality services as needed.

Hospitality Services:

• Develop and implement hospitality programs, including VIP experiences, player and staff amenities, and special events.
• Manage hospitality services during games, ensuring the needs of players, executives, and guests are met.
• Collaborate with vendors and service providers to deliver high-quality food, beverage, and entertainment experiences during league events.

Event Management Support:

• Work closely with the operations and event management teams to ensure travel and hospitality logistics align with event schedules and requirements.
• Assist in the planning and execution of special events, including opening ceremonies, banquets, and other league functions.
• Ensure that all hospitality services align with the brand standards and culture of the BAL.

Budgeting and Reporting:

• Develop and manage budgets for travel and hospitality services, ensuring cost efficiency without compromising quality.
• Prepare detailed reports on travel and hospitality expenditures and analyze data to optimize future arrangements.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Serve as the primary point of contact for teams, SLT executives regarding travel and hospitality logistics.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to provide high-quality services that enhance the overall experience of the BAL.

Compliance and Risk Management:

• Ensure compliance with international travel regulations, health and safety protocols, and league policies.
• Proactively manage risks related to travel and hospitality, ensuring that contingency plans are in place for any disruptions.

Required Skills/Knowledge

• Expert project management skills, adheres to strict deadlines and budgets.
• A bias for action and problem-solving.
• Leadership and team management.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills.
• Excellent communication, social and analytical skills.
• Exceptional organizational skills, with the ability influence outcomes.
• Self-motivated, dedicated and driven to achieve results.
• Ability to work independently and handle multiple projects.
• Broad knowledge of various African markets with familiarity on immigration and customs practices across the continent.
• Strong English & French communication skills (verbal and written).
• Basketball knowledge and/or affinity, a plus.

Experience Needed

• 10 years of experience in travel, hospitality, or event management, preferably within the sports or entertainment industries.
• Proven track record in managing large-scale travel logistics and hospitality services.
• Strong negotiation skills and experience working with vendors, hotels, and travel agencies.
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills, with the ability to manage diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple tasks with a high degree of attention to detail.
• Familiarity with African travel markets and logistics is a strong advantage.
• Willingness to travel frequently across Africa and internationally as required by the role.

Educational Background Required

• Bachelor's degree required, Tourism, Hospitality, Events or related discipline preferred.