Chief Operations Officer

Cullinan Holdings; Durban; On-site; ZAR 800,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the tourism sector is seeking a Chief Operations Officer to join their leadership team in Durban. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in the tourism industry with strong operational leadership and team management skills. This role focuses on delivering exceptional travel experiences and implementing improvements to enhance operational efficiency.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in an operational leadership role within the Tourism industry.
• Demonstrated strength in travel logistics, planning, and process improvement.
• A track record of successfully managing and leading teams.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage daily operations across all departments.
• Inspire and empower department heads and their teams.
• Transform long-term goals into actionable plans and scalable systems.

Skills

Leadership

Team Management

Communication

Travel Logistics

Process Improvement

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration

Travel & Tourism

Tools

Reservations systems

Reporting tools

Job description

Thompsons Africa is a premier luxury DMC offering curated FIT and group travel across Southern Africa.

With over 30 years of experience, we provide seamless, tech-enabled service through expert teams, guaranteed departures, and 24/7 support—delivering exceptional, personalized experiences for international travel partners and their guests.

We have an opportunity for a seasoned professional with strong acumen in Tourism operations to join our leadership team.

We are seeking a dynamic and highly organised Chief Operations Officer with a passion for people and experiences, and a commitment to leading and driving operational excellence.

The position will be based at our Head Office in Westville, Durban, and will report directly to the CEO.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

Operational Leadership

• Oversee and manage daily operations across all departments (e.g., reservations, proposals, contracting, sales, etc.) with efficiency and dedication.

• Ensure the seamless delivery of extraordinary travel experiences and services to our customers.

• Monitor KPIs and implement systems that enhance service quality, cost-efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

Team Management

• Inspire and empower department heads and their teams to achieve greatness.

• Foster a culture of performance, accountability, collaboration, and innovation.

• Implement training and development initiatives that unlock potential and build team capacity.

Strategic Execution

• Report directly to the CEO and as part of the leadership team collaborate to bring the company’s vision to life.

• Transform long-term goals into actionable plans and scalable systems.

• Spot and implement opportunities for operational improvements and automation.

Logistics and Crisis Management

• Oversee complex itineraries and last-minute travel logistics with precision and professionalism.

• Respond to unforeseen operational challenges with composure and efficiency.

Travel & Sight Oversight

• Conduct site inspections and supplier visits to ensure quality travel experiences.

• Represent the company at key meetings, trade shows, and events, where required.

• Be available and prepared to travel on short notice based on operational needs.

• Proven experience in an operational leadership role within the Tourism industry.
• Demonstrated strength in travel logistics, planning, and process improvement.
• A track record of successfully managing and leading teams, mentoring staff, and boosting productivity.
• Strong attention to detail and resilience under pressure.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.
• Willingness and flexibility to travel domestically and internationally on short notice.
• Committed and responsible.
• Proficiency in reservations systems and reporting tools.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Travel & Tourism, or related field (preferred).