Business Support Assistant (GDS & Ticketing Specialist), SC4

Role Overview

This position is embedded in the GHQ Travel Hub and focuses on the full cycle of air travel ticketing, from initial flight searches to final e-ticket delivery. Working primarily in a Global Distribution System (GDS), the role involves matching travelers with suitable itineraries, confirming bookings, and coordinating issuance through the BCD Automated Ticket Issuance platform. The work directly supports the organization's travel efficiency by ensuring that every ticket is accurate, policy-compliant, and processed with minimal delay.

Key Responsibilities

• Process incoming air travel requests through the organization's travel workflows, verifying that all required information is present before beginning a booking.
• Search and reserve flights using a GDS, applying sound fare-construction knowledge to select optimal routings, lowest logical fares, preferred carriers, and approved routes in line with corporate travel policy.
• Prepare clear flight proposals for travelers and travel focal points, explaining fare conditions, restrictions, and any constraints that might affect their choice.
• Confirm itineraries with requestors, adjusting bookings as needed and ensuring that traveler preferences are accurately reflected before ticketing.
• Submit finalized itineraries to the BCD Automated Ticket Issuance system and follow through to confirm that e-tickets are issued and transmitted to travelers promptly.
• Perform pre-issuance checks on itinerary details, fare rules, and ticketing data, and maintain accurate records of all booking and issuance activity for audit and reporting purposes.
• Support travelers during schedule changes or disruptions by identifying rebooking options, coordinating exchanges or cancellations, and liaising with BCD Travel and internal stakeholders to resolve ticketing issues.
• Help refine ticketing workflows and standard operating procedures, flagging recurring system issues and participating in knowledge sharing around GDS best practices.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Completion of secondary school education is required; a university degree or diploma in travel, tourism, business administration, or a related field is an advantage.
• At least 4 years of professional experience in airline reservations, ticketing, or travel operations is essential.
• Prior experience with a travel management company, international organization, or within the UN common system is strongly preferred.
• Hands-on technical expertise with a Global Distribution System, including fare construction, ticketing rules, and reservation management.
• Demonstrated attention to detail, with a track record of accurate data handling and quality control in high-volume ticketing environments.
• Ability to remain organized and composed under time pressure while managing multiple requests and shifting priorities.
• Strong client-service orientation, clear professional communication, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a global team.
• Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is required; knowledge of other UN languages is a plus.