Director of Strategic Sales, EMEA

Job description

Powering the agentic revolution in travel. Sabre is an AI-native technology leader, backed by one of the world’s largest travel data clouds. Built on an open, modular, cloud-native architecture, Sabre serves as the backbone for both established leaders and bold, new disruptors, guiding them to the next age of travel retailing through intelligent, connected, and personalized experiences. With AI at its core and operating at unparalleled scale, Sabre transforms insights into innovation, empowering airlines, hoteliers, agencies and other partners to retail, distribute and fulfill travel worldwide. We are seeking a Director of Strategic Sales, EMEA to join our Travel Marketplace team, where innovation knows no borders. Our team helps travel buyers and suppliers connect seamlessly through advanced distribution technology, rich content, and intelligent commercial tools. We turn complex market demands into scalable growth opportunities that help power the future of travel. With an inclusive culture and flexible work environment, we work together with boldness, curiosity, and commitment so we can all win together. As Director of Strategic Sales, EMEA, reporting directly to the Regional Managing Director, you will lead the regional strategic sales function and drive complex enterprise growth across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. You will direct cross-functional pursuit teams, align travel distribution solutions with evolving client needs, and secure long-term value for Sabre and our strategic partners. This role requires strong executive presence, a clear commercial vision, and a collaborative approach to navigating complex market environments. What you'll do Lead strategic sales initiatives across EMEA to secure major commercial contracts, drive new business growth, and expand market share. Lead, develop, and inspire a high-performing strategic sales team, fostering accountability, collaboration, and a strong performance culture. Partner with cross-functional leaders across Product, Legal, Operations, and other functions to develop and deliver scalable travel distribution solutions. Develop commercial structures and compelling value propositions aligned with regional market dynamics and critical customer requirements. Build trusted relationships with C-suite executives and other senior decision-makers to support long-term client strategies and business objectives. Lead complex, multi-stakeholder sales cycles and negotiations, bringing together the right internal resources to deliver successful outcomes. Use generative AI tools, automation, and analytics to streamline account planning, improve deal modeling and forecasting accuracy, and enhance team productivity. What you'll bring A minimum of 10 years of commercial leadership experience within travel technology, SaaS, travel distribution, or a related industry. A proven track record of closing high-value enterprise contracts and successfully managing complex sales cycles across the EMEA region. Demonstrated experience building, leading, and developing high-performing sales teams. In-depth knowledge of travel industry dynamics, API integrations, New Distribution Capability (NDC), and distribution technology. Full professional proficiency in English, with excellent written and verbal communication skills. Additional European language skills are a plus. Strong executive presence and demonstrated ability to build trusted relationships with C-suite customers and senior stakeholders. Demonstrated ability to collaborate across regional and global teams and align multidisciplinary stakeholders around shared goals. Applied experience using generative AI, automation, or data analytics tools to support strategic decision-making is preferred. Benefits that support you We know support looks different for everyone. That is why Sabre offers benefits that extend beyond medical and financial coverage, with programs designed to support your well-being, professional growth, and life outside of work: Competitive pay and performance-based bonuses Comprehensive healthcare coverage Generous PTO and holidays Strong retirement planning support Professional development opportunities We will give careful consideration to your application and review your details against the position criteria. You will receive separate notification as your application progresses. Please note that only candidates who meet the minimum criteria for the role will proceed in the selection process.