Training and GDS Support Specialist

Title: Training & GDS Support Specialist
Type;Remote

Location: United States

Job Description:

Training & GDS Support Specialist - Remote

Embark on the next step in your career journey with Direct Travel!

As one of the fastest growing Travel Management Companies (TMC) in the world, Direct Travel is committed to reimagining what is possible for the industry, including business travel, personalized experiences, and meetings & events. Under the forward-thinking direction of our experienced leadership team, we are rapidly expanding and leveraging next-generation technologies to deliver on our vision for The Perfect Trip. This is your opportunity to grow your career and be part of a dynamic team that is setting the new standard of travel and service excellence. If you're passionate about innovation and ready for what's next, we'd love for you to join us!

The Trainer & GDS Support Specialist plays a dual role within the Operations Support team at Direct Travel, serving as both a subject matter expert in training delivery and GDS (Global Distribution System) support. This position is responsible for designing, delivering, and evaluating training programs for internal teams and clients, while also providing technical GDS support and guidance for enterprise systems and tools. This individual will be highly skilled in communication, organization, and travel industry technology, with the ability to explain complex systems to diverse audiences. The role also supports GDS testing, vendor engagement, training audits, and documentation initiatives to enhance user performance and operational efficiency.

Expedition Expectations

Training Development & Delivery

• Deliver training sessions for new implementations and ongoing system use, including:

• CentralCommand (back office), GDS tools, and third-party applications

• Assess training needs, create learning objectives, and develop training materials

• Evaluate training effectiveness and identify areas requiring additional instruction

• Design, maintain, and update training manuals, job aids, and quick reference guides

• Mentor peers and support cross-training efforts across departments

GDS Support & Technical Expertise

• Provide GDS support and troubleshooting to internal users and departments
• Support GDS setup, order processing, configuration, and maintenance (as backup)
• Conduct GDS script and third-party tool testing
• Manage testing and deployment of GDS version updates and changes
• Enforce GDS policies related to access, setup, and usage standards

Quality Assurance & Communication

• Audit error and debit memo reports to identify training needs and prevent recurring issues
• Prepare and distribute GDS advisories and internal communications
• Facilitate vendor user group calls and manage vendor relationship escalations
• Participate in special projects and provide technical insight on training and GDS needs

Project Support & Documentation

• Lead or contribute to training and GDS-related projects from initiation to completion
• Recommend process improvements and cost-saving measures
• Maintain training schedules and project documentation in alignment with company standards
• Provide weekly department status updates to leadership

Passport to Success

• Minimum 5 years of experience in training and/or GDS support within the travel industry
• Strong presentation and facilitation skills with experience training in both in-person and virtual environments
• Expertise in at least one major GDS platform (Amadeus, Apollo, or Sabre); multiple preferred
• Familiarity with CentralCommand, online booking tools, and third-party travel technology platforms
• Must be willing to travel up to 10-20% as needed

Going the Extra Mile

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills across varying technical levels
• Strong organizational, multitasking, and problem-solving capabilities
• High attention to detail and ability to manage multiple training initiatives simultaneously
• Self-motivated and adaptable to changing technologies and priorities
• Skilled in analyzing technical problems and providing actionable solutions
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• Forward-thinking with an ability to anticipate training or system issues proactively

Benefits Onboard

In addition to Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits Direct Travel offers an employee rewards and recognitions program, Total Rewards Package which includes Wellness, Sustainability, DE&I initiatives, and Mental Health Support.

Our Brand Voyage: About Direct Travel

Direct Travel is a leading provider of corporate travel management services. By leveraging both the expertise of its people and innovative solutions, Direct Travel enables clients to derive the greatest value from their travel program in terms of superior service, progressive technologies, and significant cost savings. The company is led by CEO Christal Bemont and Executive Chairman Steve Singh, noted business investor and founder of Concur. Direct Travel has offices in over 80 locations and is currently ranked among the top providers of travel on Travel Weekly's Power List.