POSITION DESCRIPTION The Buyer acts as the primary client liaison and presale lead for assigned programs. The Buyer negotiates critical program components based on knowledge of client requirements from initial request through contract completion and turnover which includes recommending supplier and destinations options and solutions. The Buyer develops creative, innovative and competitive products and services that increase ITA Group's value to its customers. The Buyer proactively negotiates prices and contracts, and creates preliminary budgets. The Buyer develops and maintains geographic expertise for the purpose of delivering sales presentations for both new and existing customers. The Buyer acts as subject matter expert as it relates to destinations/hotels/events. ACCOUNTABILITIES & PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS * Lead each opportunity with Sales in the Develop Solution Stage of ITA Group's Value Chain. * Strategize with the Account Executive (AE) and operations counterpart to present destination and hotel options that are best suited for the group given the program history, program elements and participant survey requests. * Develop strong client relationships that demonstrate a clear understanding of the customer's expectations and objectives for the program. * Collaborate with clients to ensure program objectives are addressed. Accountable for maintaining proactive, positive, open lines of communication with clients to ensure understanding of expectations and client satisfaction. * Manage account/client relationship during presale stages of program. * Facilitate conversations directly with client on event requirements. * Collaborate with internal business units to develop program inclusions such as air, event technology, communications and amenities * Act as subject matter expert as it relates to destinations/hotels/events. Conceptualize, research, design and negotiate creative and client appropriate destination recommendations and programs for existing clients. * Design and develop client presentations including financial investment documents, cost analysis, negotiated savings, rationale for event, etc. * Lead sales presentations related to product expertise (either in person or via webinar/conference call) performing in a sales capacity with the AE. * Facilitate conversations directly with client on hotel decision process. * Construct accurate, rapid cost calculations and provide customers with quotations. * Review quotes; negotiate prices, concessions and all program elements with our suppliers. * Demonstrate ongoing negotiations and value to clients. Track and report cost savings on a program-by-program basis, and an annual basis for business reviews. * Secure best terms of payments with suppliers. Facilitate initial supplier payments. * Negotiate and quality control contracts with third-party suppliers. * Build effective partnerships with suppliers. * Negotiate the terms of client contracts (SOWs) and closing sales. * Achieve annual profit margin/contribution margin goals for our business unit through negotiations with key suppliers and customers. * Perform tasks efficiently to maintain appropriate labor utilization goals. * Actively participate in hotel presentations. Attend supplier meetings focused for the purpose of gaining further hotel and destination expertise and establishing supplier relationships. * Pursue knowledge on geographic destinations, hotels and other venues through continual interaction and communication with the purchasing team and supplier partners. POSITION REQUIREMENTS * Bachelor's degree in business or related field. * Three (3) years of related work experience in a negotiator role or similar position within the hospitality/incentive industry is required. * Proficient in Microsoft Office including Excel, Word and PowerPoint. * Excellent negotiation skills in regards to program design and contracting. * Vast knowledge of legal terms and conditions as it relates to 3rd party contracts such as hotel, DMC, A/V, etc. * Ability to build rapport and collaborate with all of the Event Management team members, internal sales team and internal and external customers. * Excellent time management, strategy and problem solving skills. * Excels at building relationships and building buy in. A minimum of three (3) years of managing client relationships is required. * Proven track record of displaying a sense of urgency, sense of ownership and a sense of accountability. * Proficiency in business communication including written and verbal skills. Technical writing and client presentation experience is required, along with the ability to interact with all levels of management and respond to questions regarding assigned projects and ITA Group's core competencies. * Solid business acumen with a driven, positive and professional attitude and strong work ethic. * Performs superiorly in problem solving and decision-making skills with an emphasis in solution development. * Ability to learn quickly, be resourceful and conduct daily tasks independently. * Demonstrates attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple, complex projects simultaneously and in an effective and organized manner. * Experience in working with cross-functional teams. Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to take and facilitate direction within a team environment. * Ability to think and act in a proactive manner. * Ability to travel (as needed), as requested by internal team members to lead presentation and sales efforts. * Ability to listen, understand and respond to external and internal customers' needs in a timely manner; customer service experience in a service-related industry preferred. * Ability to work the time necessary to complete projects and/or meet deadlines. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to complete each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. ITA Group, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Company will consider reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and encourage prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations with the Company.