Asif Shaikh

• Responsible for overseeing the financial performance of Travel for Meetings (T4M) in the APAC region, including managing the Profit and Loss (P&L) statement.

• Develop and execute strategies to drive revenue growth for T4M in APAC, focusing on market trends and competitor activities.

• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key T4M clients, ensuring their satisfaction and loyalty.

• Collaborate with the sales team to identify and pursue new business opportunities, expanding the client base.

• Provide guidance and support to the client management team, ensuring excellent client relationships are maintained.

• Monitor market trends and competitor activities to identify areas for improvement and growth, implementing necessary changes.

• Establish and enforce standard operating procedures to ensure the smooth execution of meetings and events.

• Oversee the coordination and planning of travel arrangements for meetings and events, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness.

• Lead and manage a team of operation staff, providing leadership, guidance, and support.

• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide feedback to team members, fostering their professional development.

• Ensure compliance with company policies, industry regulations, and best practices.

• Develop and maintain a network of suppliers and vendors for meeting and event services, negotiating contracts and agreements for competitive rates and favorable terms.

• Monitor and control expenses to ensure cost-effectiveness and profitability.

• Ensure timely and accurate reporting of financial and operational performance.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless coordination and execution of meetings and events.

• Stay updated with industry trends and innovations to drive continuous improvement.

• Represent the company at industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities.

• Foster a culture of teamwork, collaboration, and professional development within the team.

• Fulfill any other duties or responsibilities assigned by management.

• Client Relationship Management:

· Build and maintain strong relationships with key clients, understanding their travel needs and requirements.

· Collaborate with clients to develop and implement travel programs and policies that align with their business objectives. Involved internal & external presentation and roadshows.

· Partner with internal stakeholders on travel billing, BTA reconsolidation etc. to ensure seamless traveler interface and appropriate account coding.

• Oversee Travel Operations:

· Manage a team of travel consultants and operational staff, ensuring smooth workflow and adherence to company policies and procedures.

· Proven track record in managing and optimizing operations, leading cross-functional teams, and driving process improvements.

· Provided operational support to Meeting & Event (APAC - India) with group bookings.

· Monitor and evaluate the performance of the travel team, providing guidance and support as necessary.

• Vendor Management:

· Negotiate and Maintain relation with key Airlines, Hotels and car rentals partners and negotiate exclusive deals for corporate groups.

· Continuously evaluate vendors to identify cost-saving opportunities and improve service quality.

• Budgeting and Cost Control:

· Prepare and manage the clients travel budget, ensuring cost-effective travel solutions.

· Analyze travel expenses and identify areas for cost reduction and process improvement.

· Implement measures to control travel-related expenses and monitor adherence to budget guidelines.

• Travel Policy Development:

· Develop and update travel policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and best practices.

· Communicate travel policies to employees, providing training and guidance to ensure adherence.

· Conducted regular audits to ensure compliance with safety regulations and quality standards.

• Travel Technology Management:

· Stay up to date with travel technology advancements and recommend and implement relevant tools and systems.

· Proficient in utilizing technology and software systems to enhance operational efficiency and productivity.

· Train employees on the effective use of travel technology and provide ongoing support.

• Head team of 14 agents & handling quires of 200+ consultants during shift hours.
• Coach, develop & motivate team member. (Sales, telephone handling techniques, operation & product knowledge).
• Calibrate calls and provide feedback to improve service levels.
• Heading call calibration within team leaders to make sure we meet our service standards.
• Handled escalated customer service concerns to preserve customer satisfaction and maintain long-term business relationships.
• Conduct regular team briefings to ensure that team is aware of new products, policies & procedures. Monitor the discipline, grooming and conduct of the team.
• Ensure that all customer complaints received are objectively investigated and consult with team members and management to recommend remedial/corrective action.
• Manage and troubleshoot immediate operational issues to maintain contact center service and quality levels and to ensure impact on customer service is kept to a minimum.
• Ensure that the highest standard of customer service is provided to develop/increase sales by assisting agents with product and process queries.
• Identify, initiate & develop procedures that will increase service standard and ensure that the contact center stay ahead of changing needs, customer expectations and keeps pace with overall growth of development of Emirates Group.

• Responding to client inquiries as soon as possible and providing accurate information.
• Managing revenue models, process flows, operational support, and customer engagement initiatives.
• Assisting customers in selecting the best travel options.
• Defining and clarifying travel-related policies and procedures for the firm.
• Address any issues or complaints from clients to ensure their pleasure.
• Taking sales calls and promoting Alaska Airlines in India.

• Providing superior service to customers requests, inquiries, suggestions, and concerns.
• Approached each problem with fresh mind and analytical strategies to quickly resolve concerns.
• Handling Re – Issues, Calculation of Round the World, Staff Travel & Publish & NETT fares.
• Giving Brainwave ideas that help to save the revenue of the company.
• Conducted Product related refresher for new team member.
• Trained and developed sales team associates in products, selling techniques and company procedures.
• Knowledge of working on British Airways Fare & Pricing System (QUICK).

• Handled travel arrangements for groups, couples, CEOs, and clients with specific requirements.
• Hotel and ticket options were researched to best match the client's needs and expectations.
• Helped customers buy airfare, hire cars, and find alternative modes of transportation.
• Client concerns and difficulties and complaints about various travel plans were addressed.
• Strengthened quality controls to enhance revenue and control downtime.
• Collaborated with colleagues to implement best practices across department and exceed team goals.