Global Lead

Founded in 1921, OLDENDORFF CARRIERS combines its history as a German shipowner with the network of one of the world's leading drybulk operators. We currently control some 700 chartered and owned vessels of 40 mio tdw, and we carry around 380 mio tons of raw materials and semi-finished products across the seven seas each year. Our customers can expect 100% performance. All the way.

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Global Lead – Travel to head our global corporate travel team. This strategic leadership role oversees all aspects of corporate travel operations across our 15 international shipping offices, ensuring seamless planning and execution that supports our commercial objectives. As the organization's senior travel expert, you will develop and execute our corporate travel strategy, foster a positive and inclusive culture, and enable the growth of our commercial operations.

You will manage a team of up to ten direct reports, including travel managers based in Singapore, Dubai, Athens, Lübeck, and Hamburg. The role combines hands-on project work with strategic and people management responsibilities.

Global Corporate Travel Strategy

• Develop and implement a comprehensive corporate travel strategy tailored to Oldendorff's business needs and overall business strategy.
• Ensure travel arrangements enable and support our commercial operations, delivering value and efficiency.
• Manage and strengthen relationships with travel service providers, including agencies, airlines, and hotels.

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of travel professionals to deliver exceptional support to our business and employees.
• Act as a backup for the travel team in day-to-day operations when required.
• Gather feedback from leadership, board members, and office heads to continuously improve travel management processes.

Organisational Development & Process Optimisation

• Review, enhance and design processes and policies to ensure safe, cost-effective travel operations.
• Coordinate travel activities across offices and with other departments, including events management.
• Stay current with travel regulations, industry trends, and business news; communicate relevant updates promptly to the team and stakeholders.
• Oversee travel crisis management during emergencies or disruptions.
• Recognise and accommodate the diverse requirements and cultural backgrounds of employees across global locations.
• Serve approximately 300 frequent travelers (some with over 100 travel days per year) and support travel needs for around 1,000 employees in total.

• Minimum 2 years' relevant leadership experience, preferably in a multi-cultural environment with remote reporting lines
• Minimum 5 years' relevant travel industry experience, preferably in corporate travel management.
• Comprehensive understanding of travel regulations, industry best practices, and global travel operations.
• Proven interpersonal skills, with the ability to motivate and develop teams.
• Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and commercial acumen.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Highly organized, able to work under pressure, and meet deadlines.
• Customer service-oriented mindset.
• Fluent in English; proficiency in additional languages is an asset.
• Proficient in at least one Global Distribution System (GDS).
• Relevant degree or professional certification (e.g., GBTA, IATA) preferred.

Why Join Oldendorff?

You will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our corporate travel operations, working in a diverse, international environment, and collaborating with senior leaders across the business. Your expertise will directly impact our commercial success and employee experience.

• Our corporate culture is special: relaxed and international, open and traditionally with flat hierarchies.
• Since the very beginning, teamwork and quick decision making have been our succes factors. Encouraging our employees to realize their ideas and initiatives is as important to us.
• A permanent position in a secure economic environment with several benefits subject to the location.

If you want to know more about who we are: Oldendorff.

Please contact Laura Albrecht in case of questions.

Oldendorff Carriers does not accept paper applications for online postings.