Profile Summary:

Benchmark Incentive & Leisure Travels Pvt Ltd, a leader in the Indian travel industry, is seeking a seasoned and meticulous Manager for MICE Operations to join our corporate travel division in Bengaluru. We are looking for an experienced leader with 7-10 years of hands-on experience in the end-to-end operational management of high-stakes domestic and international MICE projects. The ideal candidate is a master of logistics, an expert coordinator with global partners, a sharp negotiator, and an inspiring team leader who thrives on flawless execution. You will be the operational architect responsible for transforming complex client requirements into perfectly delivered realities, managing everything from global vendor negotiations to on-site crisis management. If you have a proven track record of leading a team and executing world-class corporate movements, we invite you to apply.

Role Overview:

As the Manager of MICE Operations, you are the operational backbone of our MICE division. You will take the lead after a project is sold, assuming full responsibility for its successful planning, execution, and closure. This is a senior leadership role that involves managing a dedicated operations team, overseeing complex logistics for both domestic and international projects, and ensuring complete client satisfaction through impeccable service delivery. You will be accountable for budget adherence, supplier performance, and the overall success of every MICE group movement.

Key Responsibilities:

• End-to-End Project Management:
• Take complete ownership of projects post-handover from the sales team, from initial planning to final billing and reporting.
• Develop detailed critical path timelines, operational checklists, and project plans for each MICE group.
• Manage project budgets meticulously, ensuring cost control and profitability targets are met.
• Team Leadership & Development:
• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of MICE operations executives, delegating tasks and overseeing their performance.
• Foster a culture of excellence, proactivity, and teamwork within the operations department.
• Supplier & Partner Coordination:
• Source, negotiate with, and manage a global network of partners and suppliers, including Hotels, Airlines, Destination Management Companies (DMCs), Restaurants, and Activity Suppliers.
• Liaise and coordinate effectively with national and international Tourism Boards to gather information, support, and resources for various destinations.
• Draft and manage contracts with all partners, ensuring favourable terms and conditions.
• Continuously evaluate vendor performance to maintain our high standards of quality.
• Logistics & Operational Execution:
• Oversee all logistical components, including group flight bookings, visa processing, travel insurance, accommodation arrangements, and ground transportation.
• Coordinate with clients and internal teams for all on-ground requirements, including venue setup, audio-visuals, F&B, entertainment, and social events.
• On-site Management & Client Servicing:
• Lead or supervise on-site execution for key MICE projects, acting as the primary point of contact for senior client stakeholders.
• Demonstrate exceptional problem-solving skills, handling any on-ground issues or emergencies calmly and effectively.
• Financials & Reporting:
• Oversee the preparation of post-event reports, client feedback forms, and final financial reconciliations.
• Create and deliver clear, professional presentations for internal reviews and client updates.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

• Experience: 7-10 years of progressive experience specifically in MICE Operations. A minimum of 3 years in a team leadership or managerial capacity is mandatory.
• Scope Expertise: Demonstrable experience in independently managing both domestic and large-scale international MICE projects is essential.
• Operational Acumen: In-depth, practical knowledge of global MICE logistics, including group air ticketing, visa formalities for various countries, and hotel contracting.
• Leadership Skills: Proven ability to lead, manage, and motivate an operations team effectively.
• Technical Proficiency: Must be well-versed in creating clear, professional, and detailed presentations using MS PowerPoint for client updates, project plans, and post-event reports. Proficiency in MS Excel is also required.
• Personal Attributes:
• Exceptional organisational and multitasking skills with a keen eye for detail.
• Excellent crisis management and on-the-spot problem-solving abilities.
• Strong, professional communication and client relationship management skills.
• Willingness to travel extensively, both within India and internationally, often on short notice.
• Education: A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Tourism & Hospitality, Business Management, or a related field is preferred.

Why Join Benchmark?

• Lead a key, high-growth division within one of India's most respected travel companies.
• Gain exposure to prestigious, high-value MICE projects for leading corporate brands.
• An opportunity to shape and grow a talented operations team.
• Be part of a professional and supportive work environment that rewards performance and leadership.