Airline Partnerships Manager

Job Description

The Airline Partnerships Manager is responsible for managing and developing key airline partnerships, focusing on Frequent Flyer Program (FFP) partnerships and commercial opportunities within the airlines loyalty ecosystem. This role works closely with the airline alliances team to enhance partner integrations, negotiate commercial agreements, and drive revenue growth through strategic airline alliances. The role will focus on maximizing value for both the airline and its partners and optimizing member benefits.

Accountabilities

• Airline Partnership Strategy & Development: Lead the development and execution of the airline’s FFP partnership strategy. Identify and establish new airline partnerships while nurturing existing relationships to expand member benefits and grow the airline’s loyalty program.
• Commercial Focus & Member Benefits: Drive commercial growth by negotiating favorable terms, conditions, and benefits with airline partners.
• Ensure that all agreements align with business objectives and financial targets. Oversee the negotiation, drafting, and management of partnership contracts and ensure compliance with all regulatory and legal requirements.
• Collaborate with internal teams to design and implement compelling loyalty offerings that enhance the member experience and foster long-term loyalty, premium customer handling, such as joint campaigns, and shared reward structures.
• Partnership Performance & Analytics: Monitor and report on the performance of airline partnerships, analyzing key metrics such as member engagement, redemption activity, and revenue generation. Use data to optimize strategies and refine partnership approaches.
• Stakeholder Management: Serve as the primary point of contact for airline partners, working with key stakeholders across the organization to ensure that partnerships align with business objectives, operational requirements, and customer expectations.
• Work closely with the airline’s alliances team to ensure smooth integrations between partner airlines, aligning on shared objectives, enhancing co-branded offers, and improving cross-partner communication and operations.
• Partner with marketing, operations, and technology teams to develop integrated strategies and campaigns that promote airline partnerships and drive customer acquisition and retention.
  
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in marketing, business administration, or related field. Master’s degree is a plus
• 5+ years of experience in partnership management, commercial negotiations, or airline loyalty programs
• Proven track record in managing large-scale partnerships and driving commercial outcomes
• Strong understanding of airline industry practices, loyalty programs, and alliance structures
• Excellent negotiation, communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills
  
  

Additional Information

Etihad Airways is more than the UAE’s national airline - we’re shaping the future of global aviation. From our hub in Abu Dhabi, we connect people across continents and cultures, while driving our “Journey 2030” ambition to double our fleet, expand our network and grow our people for a new era of excellence. Join us and become part of a vision where the world is your workplace and extraordinary experiences take flight.

To learn more visit www.etihad.com

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Beware of fraudulent job offers from individuals or organizations claiming to represent the Etihad group. We will never ask for personal information, bank details, or payment during the recruitment process. Interviews are conducted face-to-face or via video/telephone before any formal offer. If you are asked for money, please treat it as fraudulent.

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