Kerri Lin Ward

Kerri-lin Ward Dynamic Sales and Business Development Professional with over 20 years of experience driving growth across the travel, hospitality, franchise development, and industrial sectors. Skilled in building client relationships, managing full sales cycles, and exceeding revenue targets in both B2B and B2C environments. Seeking to leverage my expertise in global business development and client acquisition within a results-driven organization. EXPERIENCE Oct 2024 - Jul 2025 FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR, HorsePower Brands | United States • Orchestrated management of 100+ franchise candidate leads weekly across multiple CRMs, ensuring seamless pipeline visibility and data accuracy. • Coordinated discovery days and executive meetings, achieving 95% scheduling accuracy and enhancing stakeholder engagement. • Drove 80%+ candidate engagement through proactive follow-up, tailored proposals, and strategic communication. • Leveraged CRM analytics to optimize lead qualification and improve conversion rates. Sep 2024 - Jan 2025 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, Big League Talent Co | United States • Directed new business initiatives in the construction sector, increasing qualified leads by 30% through targeted outreach and data-driven campaigns. • Built and maintained a repeat-client pipeline by fostering trust-based relationships and delivering tailored solutions. • Collaborated cross-functionally to align sales strategies with organizational objectives and market trends. • Utilized CRM tools to track performance metrics and inform revenue forecasting. Aug 2016 - Sep 2024 SENIOR TRAVEL MANAGER, Flight Centre Independent | South Africa • Led a high-value corporate travel portfolio, achieving 95% client retention and driving program profitability for multinational accounts. • Negotiated supplier contracts, securing up to 20% cost savings and optimizing program spend. • Expanded client base through strategic prospecting, partnership development, and market research. • Analyzed travel spend data to identify optimization opportunities and present actionable insights to stakeholders. • Delivered executive-level presentations and reports to support client engagement and retention. Oct 2005 - Aug 2016 SALES AND PROCUREMENT MANAGER, Shelving & Racking for Africa | South Africa • Directed sales and procurement operations, expanding the client base by 25% through targeted outreach and industry events. • Negotiated supplier contracts, achieving an average 15% cost reduction and improving program profitability. • Implemented process improvements to streamline procurement and reporting workflows. • Produced sales and revenue reports to inform strategic decision-making. Sep 2002 - Nov 2005 SENIOR TRAVEL CONSULTANT, Pentravel | South Africa • Managed a diverse client portfolio, delivering tailored business travel solutions and maintaining 90% client satisfaction. • Negotiated preferred supplier rates, optimizing margins and supporting program profitability. • Consistently exceeded revenue targets through consultative selling and relationship management. • Prepared detailed travel reports and recommendations for corporate clients. Dec 2004 - May 2005 DINING ROOM ASSISTANT, Disney Cruise Line | United States • Delivered high-volume guest service, coordinating dining logistics for 500+ guests daily in a fast-paced, multicultural environment. • Led VIP galley tours, recognized for outstanding communication and service excellence. • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless operations and guest satisfaction. EDUCATION 2000 - 2001 PRESTIGE DIPLOMA IN TRAVEL, Allenby Campus Completed a comprehensive program in travel management, business travel operations, and supplier relations, providing a strong foundation for global travel program leadership. 1995 - 1999 HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA, Glenvista High School Completed secondary education with a focus on communication, analytical, and organizational skills. SKILLS