Travel Program Manager

OVERVIEW:
The D. E. Shaw group seeks an accomplished travel program manager to join its Enterprise Operations team. This individual will oversee the firm’s global travel management program, collaborating closely with colleagues across the broader operations and purchasing teams to deliver innovative and efficient travel solutions. The position offers the opportunity to shape and optimize travel operations at scale, leveraging extensive industry experience to drive strategic initiatives and enhance service delivery.
WHAT YOU'LL DO DAY-TO-DAY:

• Lead the strategic direction and day-to-day management of the firm’s global travel program, including vendor selection, contract negotiation, and relationship management with travel providers, airlines, hotels, and ground transportation partners.
• Oversee the administration of corporate credit card programs, ensure compliance with travel policies, and drive the development and implementation of travel guidelines and best practices.
• Benchmark and research market trends to support a hybrid workplace, automate travel booking and approval processes, and identify opportunities for operational efficiencies.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders and international counterparts to resolve travel-related issues and continuously improve the traveler experience.

WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR:

• A bachelor’s degree or higher and at least eight years of experience in global travel management, ideally within large, complex organizations or similar firms.
• Deep knowledge of domestic and international travel regulations, industry tools (e.g., Concur, Navan, Passkey, travel dashboards), and best practices in travel operations.
• Demonstrated expertise in vendor management, contract negotiation, and T&E reporting and processing.
• Exceptional organizational, analytical, and communication skills, with the ability to build solid relationships with internal teams and external partners.
• Proven ability to lead strategic initiatives, adapt to evolving business needs, and maintain a customer service approach in a fast-paced environment.
• The expected annual base salary for this position is $150,000 to $200,000. Our compensation and benefits package includes variable compensation in the form of a year-end bonus, guaranteed in the first year of hire, and benefits including medical and prescription drug coverage, 401(k) contribution matching, wellness reimbursement, family building benefits, and a charitable gift match program.