Back-office System

Term from Travel Services industry explained for recruiters

A Back-office System is like the behind-the-scenes control center of a travel business. It's the software that helps manage all the non-customer-facing operations, such as booking management, accounting, supplier relationships, and employee scheduling. Think of it as the engine room that keeps everything running smoothly while the front desk staff helps customers. Travel agencies use these systems to handle tasks like tracking commissions, managing invoices, and keeping records of all travel arrangements. Common examples include Amadeus Back Office, Sabre Back Office, or custom-built solutions.

Examples in Resumes

Managed daily operations using Back-office System for a team of 50 travel agents

Trained new employees on company's Back Office software and booking procedures

Streamlined reservation process by implementing new features in the Back-office System

Typical job title: "Back Office Managers"

Also try searching for:

Operations Manager Back Office Coordinator Travel Operations Specialist Reservation System Manager Travel Operations Supervisor Back Office Administrator

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a situation where the back-office system goes down during peak booking season?

Expected Answer: Looking for answers that demonstrate crisis management, knowledge of backup procedures, and ability to maintain operations while system issues are resolved. Should mention communication with team and temporary manual processes.

Q: What improvements have you implemented in previous back-office systems?

Expected Answer: Should discuss experience in process optimization, training programs, and system upgrades that improved efficiency. Looking for examples of problem-solving and leadership.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you ensure accuracy in booking records and financial transactions?

Expected Answer: Should explain verification procedures, double-checking methods, and regular auditing processes. Looking for attention to detail and systematic approach.

Q: Describe your experience in training others on back-office systems.

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate ability to teach others, create training materials, and ensure consistent use of the system across the team.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What basic functions of a back-office system are you familiar with?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe basic booking management, data entry, report generation, and daily operational tasks.

Q: How do you prioritize tasks when managing multiple bookings?

Expected Answer: Should show understanding of time management, urgency assessment, and basic organizational skills.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic reservation management
  • Data entry and record keeping
  • Customer information handling
  • Basic report generation

Mid (2-5 years)

  • System troubleshooting
  • Staff training
  • Process improvement
  • Financial reconciliation

Senior (5+ years)

  • Operations management
  • System optimization
  • Team leadership
  • Strategic planning

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No experience with travel industry software
  • Poor attention to detail in handling bookings
  • Lack of basic accounting knowledge
  • Unable to handle multiple tasks simultaneously
  • No experience in customer service or travel industry