Adventure Tourism Operations Manager

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package with performance-based,

Health benefits

Professional development opportunities

Discounted tour packages

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Mossel Bay is seeking an seasoned Adventure Tourism Operations Manager to lead all aspects of adventure tours and ensure outstanding customer experiences and safety. You will oversee guides, equipment, itineraries, and compliance while driving operational efficiency.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in operations management within adventure tourism, strong leadership, risk management, and budgeting expertise, plus knowledge of Western Cape destinations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in tourism or related field.
• Minimum 5 years in operations management in adventure tourism.
• Proven risk management and safety procedures.
• Strong leadership and budgeting experience.

Responsibilities

• Oversee planning, development, and execution of all adventure activities and tours.
• Manage and train a team of adventure tour guides ensuring safety, service, and expertise.
• Implement and enforce safety protocols and risk management for all activities.
• Manage maintenance, repair, and inventory of adventure equipment (kayaks, bicycles, climbing gear, vehicles).
• Develop and manage budgets ensuring profitability and cost-effectiveness.
• Source and build relationships with suppliers and partners in tourism.
• Ensure compliance with tourism, environmental, and safety regulations.
• Contribute to development of new adventure products and itineraries.
• Manage customer relations, inquiries, feedback and satisfaction.
• Coordinate logistics for tours including transportation, accommodation, scheduling.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Budgeting

Risk management

Customer service

Operations planning

Scheduling software

Problem solving

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor's degree in Tourism Management / Business Administration

Tools

Booking systems

MS Office / spreadsheets

Fleet management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a seasoned Adventure Tourism Operations Manager to spearhead operations for their growing adventure tourism company based in Mossel Bay, Western Cape . This dynamic role involves managing all aspects of adventure tours and activities, ensuring exceptional customer experiences, operational efficiency, and uncompromising safety standards. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in the adventure tourism sector, a passion for the outdoors, and strong leadership skills. You will be responsible for overseeing tour guides, managing equipment fleets, developing new itineraries, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations. This is a critical position for a company dedicated to showcasing the natural beauty and adventure opportunities of the Western Cape . The role demands a strategic thinker with a hands‑on approach, committed to delivering unforgettable experiences for clients.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the planning, development, and execution of all adventure tourism activities and tours.
• Manage and train a team of adventure tour guides, ensuring they meet company standards for safety, customer service, and expertise.
• Implement and enforce rigorous safety protocols and risk management procedures for all activities.
• Manage the maintenance, repair, and inventory of all adventure equipment (e.g., kayaks, bicycles, climbing gear, vehicles).
• Develop and manage operational budgets, ensuring profitability and cost-effectiveness.
• Source and build relationships with key suppliers and partners in the tourism industry.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant tourism, environmental, and safety regulations.
• Contribute to the development of new adventure products and itineraries to expand the company's offerings.
• Manage customer relations, addressing inquiries, feedback, and ensuring high levels of satisfaction.
• Coordinate logistics for tours, including transportation, accommodation, and activity scheduling.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Tourism Management, Business Administration, Outdoor Education, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in operations management within the adventure tourism industry.
• Proven expertise in risk management and safety procedures for outdoor activities.
• Strong leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated experience in budget management and financial oversight.
• Excellent knowledge of the adventure tourism market and key destinations in the Western Cape .
• Relevant certifications in first aid, wilderness survival, or specific adventure activities (e.g., climbing, kayaking instructor).
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays, to meet operational demands.
• A passion for adventure, conservation, and delivering exceptional client experiences.
• Proficiency in relevant software for booking, scheduling, and operations management.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience, alongside performance-based bonuses and comprehensive health benefits.
• This role provides unique opportunities for professional development within the exciting field of adventure tourism.
• Employees benefit from discounted tour packages and the chance to work in a breathtaking natural environment in Mossel Bay .
• Join a passionate team dedicated to providing thrilling and safe adventures.
• Potential for career advancement and leadership within a growing company.