Role summary
Join Student Educational Experiences and turn travel into life-changing learning. Lead Australia-based operations for a fast-moving education and MICE travel business, designing curriculum-aligned programs, safeguarding student wellbeing, and delivering large-group events and study tours across Southeast Asia. This hands-on leadership role combines strategic oversight in Melbourne with targeted in-region travel for audits and program delivery.
What you will do
* Act as the Australia-based lead for schools, universities and guardians; present programs and run pre-trip briefings.
* Design and finalise curriculum-aligned itineraries, teacher resources and student learning activities.
* Build and maintain client relationships to drive retention and growth: meet with teachers, school leaders and parents to present programs, gather feedback and secure repeat bookings.
* Prepare and approve program budgets, manage invoicing and financial reporting.
* Plan and coordinate group travel logistics including visas, transport, accommodation, meals and special needs.
* Source, negotiate and manage supplier contracts, conduct supplier audits and quality assurance.
* Oversee bookings and reservations systems and maintain accurate records.
* Prepare and sign off risk assessments, child safety plans, OHS documentation and emergency procedures to Australian standards.
* Lead incident escalation and coordinate responses with in-country teams, insurers, parents and Australian authorities.
* Recruit, train and supervise in-country coordinators and contractors, develop SOPs and training modules.
* Provide managerial oversight in marketing and business development by providing program content and pricing inputs, selecting and managing suppliers.
* Travel as required for supplier audits, contract negotiations and operational leadership; return to Melbourne for strategic, financial and compliance duties.
Who we are looking for
* Over 5 years' experience managing business operations in student group or large-group travel, preferably outbound from Australia to Asia.
* Experience with schools, universities or youth groups and with conference or event travel.
* Professional fluency in English, proficiency in an Asian language is highly regarded.
* Demonstrated curriculum design, risk and child safety experience and supplier/contract management.
* Experience in recruiting, training and supervising teams across borders and managing program budgets.
Desirable skills
* Degree in Tourism, Education, Business or related field.
* GDS experience (Sabre preferred).
* First Aid or risk management qualification.
* Event MICE experience with large-group logistics and contingency planning.
Why join us
Make a real difference in young people's lives while building a career in a creative, mission-driven team. Work from Melbourne with meaningful travel to Southeast Asia, strong support from a regional partner, and opportunities to shape program growth and quality.
How to apply
Send a single PDF or Word document with a cover letter addressing the selection criteria, CV with referees and examples of past work to with subject "Travel Operations Manager". Applications close 28 Feb 2026.
Student Educational Experiences is an equal opportunity employer. Sponsorship may be considered for a suitably qualified overseas candidate. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $80,000.00 – $90,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person