Channel Manager

Term from Boutique Hotels industry explained for recruiters

A Channel Manager is a person who oversees how a hotel's rooms are sold across different booking websites and travel agencies. Think of them as the traffic controller for hotel room sales - they make sure rooms aren't double-booked and that prices are correct whether a guest books through Expedia, Booking.com, or other travel websites. They help hotels maximize their room sales by being present on multiple booking platforms while keeping everything organized and up-to-date.

Examples in Resumes

Increased hotel revenue by 35% through strategic management of Channel Manager platforms

Coordinated with 20+ online travel agencies using Channel Manager systems

Implemented new Channel Manager software to streamline booking operations

Typical job title: "Channel Managers"

Also try searching for:

Hotel Channel Manager Distribution Channel Manager Revenue Manager Online Distribution Specialist Hotel Distribution Coordinator Booking Channel Specialist

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you develop a strategy to maximize revenue across different booking channels?

Expected Answer: Should discuss analyzing booking patterns, pricing strategies across different platforms, understanding peak vs. off-peak seasons, and coordinating with various departments to create effective distribution strategies.

Q: How do you handle a situation where multiple channels are overselling room inventory?

Expected Answer: Should explain methods for inventory management, implementing stop-sells when needed, communication procedures with booking partners, and systems to prevent future overselling.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What factors do you consider when selecting new booking channels to work with?

Expected Answer: Should discuss commission rates, target market analysis, channel reputation, technical integration capabilities, and potential return on investment.

Q: How do you maintain rate parity across different booking channels?

Expected Answer: Should explain monitoring tools, pricing strategies, contract compliance, and methods to ensure consistent pricing across all platforms.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the main online travel agencies (OTAs) and how do they differ?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of major booking platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com, their commission structures, and basic features.

Q: How do you update room availability across multiple channels?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic channel manager software usage, inventory updating procedures, and importance of real-time updates.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of booking platforms
  • Room inventory management
  • Price updating across channels
  • Basic reporting and analytics

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Revenue optimization techniques
  • Channel performance analysis
  • Relationship management with OTAs
  • Problem-solving for booking issues

Senior (5+ years)

  • Strategic distribution planning
  • Revenue maximization
  • Team leadership
  • Market analysis and forecasting

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of major booking platforms
  • Lack of revenue management understanding
  • Poor communication skills
  • No experience with channel manager software
  • Unable to explain basic pricing strategies