Travel & Expenses Manager

Smiths Detection is a global leader in threat detection and screening technologies for aviation, ports & borders, defense, and urban security. Our expertise is spread across 5 R&D centres, 21 Global Offices and 7 Manufacturing Sites with 3000 Brilliant minds globally contributing for over 40 years at the frontline which enables us to deliver the solutions needed to protect our society from any threat and illegal passage of explosives, prohibited weapons, contraband, toxic chemicals, and narcotics. Every minute of every day, our technology and talented team members help to make the world a safer place - https://youtu.be/JmcKLJTrHLc

Smiths Detection’s parent company (Smiths Group plc) have announced its intention to sell Detection to CVC Capital Partners and so we are looking for an experienced, proactive and passionate Transport & Expenses (T&E) Manager to build and lead our brand-new T&E function.

This is a rare opportunity to shape a global process from the ground up, embed a best-in-class service that supports thousands of colleagues worldwide. If you thrive in a hands-on environment where you can make a tangible impact, this role is for you.

As our T&E Manager, you will:

• Lead the design and build of Smiths Detection’s standalone T&E function
• Own the transition from existing processes, systems and contracts
• Manage and continually improve a global T&E service that underpins our operational excellence
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This is both a strategic and operational role — ideal for someone who enjoys shaping direction while staying close to the detail and adding value.

What You’ll Do

1. Design Detection’s T&E Function

• Create a standardised, end-to-end global T&E process aligned to best practice
• Define team roles, responsibilities, governance, policies and controls
• Design, implement and optimise our key platforms and partners, including SAP Concur, Egencia and Amex
• Develop a transition plan that fits our separation timeline
• Engage and align key internal and external stakeholders

2. Establish the New T&E Function

• Deliver the transition plan and report progress against key milestones
• Adapt plans as separation activities evolve
• Onboard two T&E Analysts to form your team

3. Own & Manage the T&E Operation

• Lead, coach and develop a high-performing team
• Oversee governance, processes, compliance and controls
• Monitor and analyse T&E spend, challenge usage and drive cost savings
• Manage relationships with travel and card providers, negotiating rates, rebates and performance
• Oversee day-to-day employee support and issue resolution

4. Drive Continuous Improvement

• Review the performance and cost-effectiveness of third-party partners
• Stay current with industry best practice and propose improvements

• Enhance processes, reporting and analytics to ensure the function delivers measurable value

What You’ll Bring

• 5+ years’ experience in corporate T&E management
• Proven experience leading a T&E team and owning an end-to-end function
• Strong hands-on expertise in bookings, expenses and claim review
• Experience with SAP Concur (preferred)
• Track record of improving T&E processes within a corporate environment
• Strong vendor management skills (travel agents, corporate credit cards)
• Excellent communication and stakeholder-management skills, with confidence to challenge and influence
• Analytical mindset with the ability to drive cost-saving initiatives
• Highly organised, detail-oriented and delivery-focused

Planning & Decision Making

• Ability to prioritise, plan and deliver against clear deadlines
• Ownership of day-to-day decisions, escalating key risks or issues appropriately
• Comfortable working in an evolving environment with shifting demands during separation

To find out more about life at Smiths Detection check out our LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/smiths-detection/ and follow our story

Join us for a great career and competitive compensation & benefits whilst keeping the world a safer place.

Diversity & Inclusion:

We believe that different perspectives and backgrounds are what make a company flourish. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, economic status, disability, age, or any other legally protected characteristics. We are proud to be an inclusive company with values grounded in equality and ethics, where we celebrate, support, and embrace diversity.

At no time during the hiring process will Smiths Detection, Smiths Group, nor any of our recruitment partners ever request payment to enable participation – including, but not limited to, interviews or testing. Avoid fraudulent requests by applying jobs directly through our career’s website (www.smithsdetection.com/careers)

We believe that different perspectives and backgrounds are what make a company flourish. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment regardless of color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, economic status, disability, age, or any other legally protected characteristics. We are proud to be an inclusive company with values grounded in equality and ethics, where we celebrate, support, and embrace diversity.

At no time during the hiring process will Smiths Group, nor any of our recruitment partners ever request payment to enable participation – including, but not limited to, interviews or testing. Avoid fraudulent requests by applying jobs directly through our career’s website (Careers - Smiths Group plc)