BTN Europe’s second annual Travel Manager Salary & Job Satisfaction Survey highlights the evolving role of travel managers in the corporate sector, shedding light on their expanding responsibilities, salary trends, and the challenges they face in a rapidly changing landscape. The survey provides insights into the impact of technological shifts, corporate priorities, and the rewards and frustrations of the profession.
Salary Breakdown by Country: The survey reveals variations across Europe:
UK: €77,979 (+0.2% year-on-year)
Germany: €75,631 (+0.67% year-on-year)
Sweden: €68,691 (+7.26% year-on-year), reflecting the largest increase.
Travel Spend Correlates with Pay: A key finding of the survey shows that travel managers overseeing larger travel programs tend to earn higher salaries. The salary comparison between annual spend and pay reveals a clear correlation:
- Managers handling €1 million to €9.9 million in annual travel spend earn an average of €61,000.
- Those managing €10 million to €49.9 million earn approximately €72,000.
- Travel managers responsible for over €50 million in travel spend have an average salary of €90,000.
Salary Movements: In terms of pay progression, nearly three-quarters (73%) of respondents reported salary increases in 2024, up from 65% in 2023. However, a minority (23%) saw no change, and 7% experienced a pay cut.
Challenges and Frustrations: While salary growth is evident, the survey also highlights the frustrations faced by travel managers. One-third of respondents feel underappreciated in their roles, and many face increasing pressure to balance growing responsibilities with limited recognition. The expanding scope of their roles, coupled with the shifting demands of corporate travel, is contributing to a challenging work environment.
Conclusion: The 2024 Travel Manager Salary & Job Satisfaction Survey underscores both the rewards and challenges of the profession, revealing a growing disparity between job responsibilities and compensation. As the industry continues to evolve, travel managers are expected to adapt to new technologies, changing corporate priorities, and an increasingly complex travel landscape. While many are seeing salary growth, the push for greater recognition and fair compensation remains a central issue.
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