Commercial Partnerships Manager
Join us on the Journey...
Ready to Drive Big Wins? National Express is looking for a Commercial Partnerships Manager!
Want to lead the way in how people book their travel? National Express is on the hunt for a commercial professional who gets the travel ecosystem, knows how to scale third party channels, and isn’t afraid to dive deep into data to find the next big opportunity.
This is your chance to manage a high-impact revenue stream and shape the distribution strategy for a major UK brand. You will be the mastermind behind our partnerships with OTAs, travel agencies, and digital affiliates, ensuring our brand is everywhere our customers are.
This role is based in Birmingham and is mobile, giving you the flexibility to be where the business needs you most.
What you will do
- Own the Growth: Manage and scale indirect sales partners like OTAs and travel agencies to maximize revenue and customer acquisition.
- Strategise & Deliver: Work with senior leaders to define our distribution mix and hit annual revenue targets across all third party channels.
- Build the Pipeline: Identify and negotiate new high value partnerships, both domestically and internationally.
- Collaborate & Integrate: Partner with Digital and IT teams to support API and other digitally driven integrations and ensure seamless onboarding for new partners.
- Analyze & Optimize: Use data insights to provide accurate forecasts and recommendations that keep us ahead of the competition.
- Lead the team: Line management responsibility for a Commercial Partnerships Executive
What you will bring
- Proven Track Record: At least 4+ years of experience driving revenue and EBIT growth through third party channels, ideally in travel or e-commerce.
- Negotiation Skills: Exceptional ability to influence senior stakeholders and manage complex commercial agreements.
- Analytical Mindset: A strategic brain that uses data (like conversion and yield) to support smart commercial decisions.
- Communication Pro: Excellent presentation skills and the ability to simplify complex insights for the wider business.
- Tech Savvy (Bonus): Knowledge of API integrations, GDS, or global distribution strategies is a huge plus.
What you get for bringing the energy
- We look after our people with perks that actually make a difference:
- Free Travel: Free bus and coach travel across the National Express network for you.
- Travel for your Plus One: Complimentary travel for your nominated person or partner.
- Future Security: Life assurance and a solid company pension.
- Wellness Support: Access to our Employee Assistance Programme and a private online GP service.
If this role feels like your vibe, now is the time to jump in!
Things to Note...
At National Express, we are really proud of our health and safety record and as a result, we operate a Drugs and Alcohol Policy which is applicable to all employees.
As part of your initial assessment, we will complete Drug and Alcohol testing and you may be subject to random tests during your employment.