German-Speaking Groups & Series Specialist

Innovation Advance Group; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 480,000; Full time

Job summary

Innovation Advance Group in Johannesburg North seeks a meticulous German Groups & Group Series Specialist to design, cost, and execute tailored itineraries for German-speaking markets. You will own the end-to-end process from initial inquiry to on-the-ground support, nurturing agent relationships and delivering exceptional client experiences.

You will coordinate tour guides, manage supplier relationships, and ensure accurate documentation while maintaining margins and timely invoicing.

Qualifications

• Native or business-level fluency in written and spoken German.
• Minimum 3+ years of experience managing group bookings and group series in inbound travel.

Responsibilities

• Design, cost, and execute group itineraries and series tours for German-speaking markets.
• Manage end-to-end reservations, file loading, supplier confirmations, and tour documentation.

Skills

German language

Group bookings

Tourplan

Supplier negotiation

Client relations

Education

Matric / Grade 12

Travel & Tourism qualification

Tools

Tourplan software

Job description

German-Speaking Groups & Series Specialist

Our client, an established leader in inbound tourism, is seeking a meticulous and driven German Groups & Group Series Specialist based in Johannesburg North. In this dynamic role, you will take full ownership of designing, costing, and executing group itineraries and series tours for German-speaking markets. From initial query to on-the-ground support, you will be the key driver in delivering exceptional client experiences, nurturing agent relationships, and bringing Southern Africa to life for international travellers.

Key Responsibilities

• Itinerary Design & Quoting: Assess agent briefs to build tailored, cost-effective, and creative itineraries and series proposals (in German) utilizing Tourplan.
• Reservations & Operations: Manage end-to-end group bookings, file loading, supplier confirmations, and the accurate preparation of tour documentation (vouchers, rooming lists, guide packs).
• Tour Guide Coordination: Select, book, and brief tour guides based on group dynamics and language requirements; maintain active liaison with guides while tours are on the road.
• Client & Agent Relationship Management: Act as the primary point of contact for overseas agents, providing timely updates, expert product recommendations, and post-tour feedback analysis.
• On-the-Ground Support & Complaint Handling: Proactively resolve operational queries, emergencies, or client concerns on the spot in coordination with tour guides.
• Supplier Negotiation & Product Development: Build strong relationships with key suppliers to secure optimal rates, source innovative products, and continuously expand regional product knowledge.
• Financial Administration: Accurately reconcile client files, monitor margins, manage invoicing, and follow up on payment schedules with internal finance teams.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Language Skills: Native or business-level fluency in written and spoken German is non-negotiable.
• Experience: Minimum 3+ years of experience managing group bookings and group series within the Southern African inbound travel sector.
• Technical Proficiency: Hands-on experience with Tourplan (or a similar specialized travel software) for quoting, reservations, and file management.
• Destination Knowledge: Deep geographical, logistical, and product knowledge of South Africa and the broader Southern African region.
• Industry Insights: Understanding of the German travel market and relevant travel regulations.
• Education: Grade 12 / Matric required; a formal Qualification in Travel & Tourism is preferred.

Core Competencies & Personal Attributes

• Uncompromising Attention to Detail: Precise in costings, document generation, and procedural compliance.
• Problem-Solving Agility: Calm under pressure with the maturity and discretion to handle real-time logistical challenges or client feedback.
• Strong Negotiation & Communication Skills: Confident in building rapport with suppliers, guides, and international agents.
• Organized & Goal-Oriented: Exceptional time management skills with a track record of meeting tight turnaround times and sales targets.

Please note: Only shortlisted candidates who meet the language and experience requirements will be contacted.