Business Development Manager (Southeast Asia)

About the role

Tourism Australia is seeking a Business Development Manager (“BDM”) to establish and manage strategic partnerships across both travel and non-travel industries in Southeast Asia with a specific focus on Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines (“TVP Markets”) driving leisure and business inbound tourism to Australia.

Working closely with Tourism Australia team members, government departments and State Tourism Offices (“STOs”), the BDM is directly accountable for the alignment of quality partners for major consumer and trade marketing programs that lead to conversion opportunities for travel to Australia.

This newly created role is a permanent full-time opportunity based in our Singapore office and reports into the Regional General Manager, SSEA. You will be responsible for:

• Establishing and maintaining relationships with key partners including wholesale travel agents, tourism organisations and government bodies
• Conducting regular market visits and sales calls to strengthen Australia’s presence in Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines
• Identifying opportunities to attract TVP markets to boost MICE in Australia
• Building and maintaining Tourism Australia’s CRM system for the region to enhance partner engagement
• Collaborating with internal stakeholders to develop and execute an annual operating plan
• Planning, managing and reporting on marketing co-ops with key distribution partners
• Managing and recruiting travel agents for the Aussie Specialist Program
• Gathering, analysing, and sharing insights on market trends and opportunities
• Working closely with the Australian STOs to align strategies and initiatives
• Planning and managing major trade functions and events across target markets
• Managing annual market budgets in compliance with corporate policies

About you

• A degree in Business, Marketing, Tourism, or a related field and/or 5+ years’ extensive sales experience
• Minimum three years’ experience in a business development role within the tourism industry
• Based in Singapore with full, unrestricted working rights
• Solid understanding of the Southeast Asian and Australian travel industry
• Excellent English proficiency (reading, writing, listening, and speaking); fluency in Vietnamese and/or Thai is preferred
• Strong ability to engage, influence, and collaborate with industry partners
• Commercial acumen – ability to develop strategies and implement activities to achieve commercial KPIs
• Excellent negotiation skills to align partners with Tourism Australia’s marketing goals
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Willingness to be flexible with working hours and travelling as part of a multinational organisation

About us

Tourism Australia is the Australian Government agency responsible for attracting international visitors to Australia, both for leisure and business events. We are active in 15 key markets and our activities include advertising, PR and media programs, trade shows and industry programs, consumer promotions, online communications and consumer research.

Every day we share our passion with the world, sharing the story of Australia and our 65,000 years of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. We are equally as passionate about creating an incredible culture at Tourism Australia, recognising and supporting the individuality of our people, in an environment where we learn and grow together.

Why us?

We’re committed to creating an inclusive and collaborative work environment that is guided by our values. We bring our values to life through the way we behave every day.

• We think big and without borders… We have a proud history of doing innovative and ground-breaking work. And we’re not done yet
• We make each other better… We’re one team. We value diversity and listen to all opinions before aligning on the best way forward, but robust discussion makes our work stronger
• We do the right thing… We are respectful of communities, cultures, and the earth we all inhabit, and take our responsibility to care for all three seriously
• We only do work that makes a difference… There’s so much we can do, and want to do, but we focus on the things that will add the most value to our industry
• We’re obsessed with telling the Australian story… We’re passionate about Australia, her land, nature, people, and culture. And We’re proud of our role in sharing her story with the world.

What we offer

• A fun, friendly, supportive team culture where we are passionate about what we do and celebrate the wins
• Hybrid working arrangements, offering you better work-life balance
• Commitment to your health and wellbeing with access to our EAP and health rebate
• An extensive learning and development program so you can grow your skills and talent

How to apply

Apply online and provide a copy of your resume and short cover letter summarising your interest, skills and relevant experience. Applications close 14 March 2025.

Tourism Australia is an Equal Opportunity Employer dedicated to providing an inclusive workplace where everyone feels a sense of belonging and connection including those with disabilities. We embrace individuals with diverse backgrounds, perspectives and experiences.