Sr. Manager / Manager - Domestic Contracting - MICE

About the role:

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Manager/Senior Manager - Domestic Contracting , to join our dynamic MICE Division. This crucial role is responsible for the end-to-end management of vendor contracting, negotiation, and relationship management for all domestic MICE events. The ideal candidate will possess deep market knowledge, excellent negotiation skills, and a proven track record of securing optimal rates and terms to maximize profitability and deliver exceptional client value.

Key Responsibilities

1. Vendor Contracting & Negotiation

• Lead all negotiations for domestic MICE services, including but not limited to hotels, resorts, convention centers, DMCs (Destination Management Companies), transportation, technical suppliers (A/V, production), F&B, and entertainment.
• Develop and maintain a robust, high-quality vendor database, categorized by region, capability, and performance history.
• Establish and enforce preferred vendor agreements and rate grids to ensure consistent quality and cost efficiency across all projects.
• Draft, review, and finalize complex vendor contracts and agreements, ensuring all terms comply with legal requirements, agency standards, and client SOWs (Statements of Work).

2. Financial Management & Optimization

• Conduct thorough cost analysis and benchmarking to ensure all contracted rates are competitive and favourable.
• Implement strategies for achieving maximum savings, including volume discounts, soft dollar negotiations, and value-adds.
• Manage the budget allocation for all contracted services, track expenses, and ensure profitability targets for the division are met.

3. Strategy & Market Intelligence

• Stay ahead of industry trends, market rates, and new venue openings/suppliers in the domestic MICE landscape.
• Provide strategic contracting advice and realistic cost estimates to the Sales and Operations teams during the pitch and planning phases.
• Develop long-term sourcing and contracting strategies to build sustainable, mutually beneficial partnerships.

4. Team Collaboration & Process

• Work closely with the Operations/Project Management teams to understand project-specific requirements, timelines, and constraints.
• Train and mentor junior staff members on best practices in negotiation, contract review, and vendor management.
• Standardize and streamline contracting processes, documentation, and reporting for greater efficiency and compliance.

Required Qualification, Experience & skills:

• 5-9 years in MICE/Events/Hospitality contracting/sourcing, preferably in an agency setting.
• Bachelors degree in hospitality management, Business, or a related field
• Expert negotiation, contract law basics, strong analytical and financial acumen. Proficient in MS Office.
• Proven track record of successful domestic contracting and achieving cost savings.

What do we offer?

• 5 days work week
• Opportunity to be a part of the growthstory
• Competitive salary with flexi structure
• Flexi & Hybrid working & time off policy
• Comprehensive parental leave & associated benefits
• Family cover for Medical Insurance including same gender partner cover
• Creative, diverse & nurturing work environment