**Experienced Manager State & Higher Education – Strategic Account Management and Business Development at blithequark**

Are you a results-driven leader with a passion for strategic account management and business development? Do you thrive in a fast-paced, innovative environment where you can make a real impact? Look no further than this exciting opportunity to join blithequark as an Experienced Manager State & Higher Education. **About blithequark** At blithequark, we're on a mission to connect people to what's important in their lives through friendly, reliable, and low-cost air travel. Our purpose is at the heart of everything we do, and we're committed to delivering exceptional customer experiences that exceed our passengers' expectations. As a leader in the airline industry, we're constantly looking for talented individuals who share our passion for innovation, teamwork, and customer satisfaction. **The Role** As an Experienced Manager State & Higher Education, you'll play a critical role in driving business growth and developing strategic partnerships with State, Local, and Higher Education managed travel accounts. You'll be part of our Southwest Business Department, where you'll work closely with Field Government Account Managers and designated portfolio management to increase sales, establish formal partnerships, and broaden awareness of our corporate travel programs and services. **Key Responsibilities:** * Develop and execute strategic plans to increase sales and grow our presence in the managed travel industry * Coach and professionally develop Field Government Account Managers to achieve sales targets and build strong relationships with key stakeholders * Identify and pursue new business opportunities with State, Local, and Higher Education managed travel accounts * Establish and maintain formal partnerships with key decision-makers and influencers in the managed travel industry * Develop and implement effective training programs to ensure our sales organization is equipped to succeed in the managed travel industry * Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive business growth and improve customer satisfaction * Analyze sales data and market trends to inform business decisions and drive strategic growth **Essential Qualifications:** * 5+ years of experience in sales, business development, or account management, with a proven track record of success in the managed travel industry * Strong leadership and coaching skills, with the ability to develop and motivate high-performing teams * Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with key stakeholders * Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze sales data and market trends to inform business decisions * Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with multiple priorities and deadlines * U.S. citizenship or current authorization to work in the U.S. is required, and no current or future work authorization sponsorship is available **Preferred Qualifications:** * Experience working in the airline industry, with a strong understanding of our business model and operations * Proven track record of success in developing and executing strategic plans to drive business growth * Strong knowledge of the managed travel industry, including key trends, challenges, and opportunities * Experience working with State, Local, and Higher Education managed travel accounts * Strong understanding of sales and marketing principles, with the ability to develop and implement effective sales strategies **Skills and Competencies:** * Strong leadership and coaching skills, with the ability to develop and motivate high-performing teams * Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with key stakeholders * Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze sales data and market trends to inform business decisions * Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with multiple priorities and deadlines * Strong knowledge of the managed travel industry, including key trends, challenges, and opportunities * Strong understanding of sales and marketing principles, with the ability to develop and implement effective sales strategies **Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits:** * Opportunities to develop and execute strategic plans to drive business growth and improve customer satisfaction * Collaborative and dynamic work environment with a team of talented professionals * Access to training and development programs to enhance your skills and knowledge * Opportunities to work on high-profile projects and initiatives that drive business growth and improve customer satisfaction * Recognition and rewards for outstanding performance and contributions to the team **Work Environment and Company Culture:** * Remote work environment with occasional travel for training, meetings, and conferences * Collaborative and dynamic work environment with a team of talented professionals * Opportunities to work on high-profile projects and initiatives that drive business growth and improve customer satisfaction * Recognition and rewards for outstanding performance and contributions to the team * Access to training and development programs to enhance your skills and knowledge **Compensation, Perks, and Benefits:** * Competitive salary and bonus structure * Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance * 401(k) retirement plan with company match * Paid time off and holidays * Access to training and development programs to enhance your skills and knowledge * Recognition and rewards for outstanding performance and contributions to the team **Equal Opportunity Employer:** blithequark is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We continue to look for opportunities to reflect the communities we serve, and welcome applicants with diverse thoughts, backgrounds, and experiences. **How to Apply:** If you're a motivated and results-driven leader with a passion for strategic account management and business development, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity to join blithequark as an Experienced Manager State & Higher Education. Please submit your application through our website, including your resume, cover letter, and any other relevant materials. We can't wait to hear from you! Apply for this job