Head Surf Instructor & Coastal Operations Manager

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Generous holiday allowance

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Head Surf Instructor & Coastal Operations Manager in Cape Town to lead the surf school program and coastal operations. You will guide curriculum development, mentor instructors, and ensure top safety standards across beach facilities.

You will manage budgets, coordinate clinics and events, and work with marketing to grow participation. Flexibility for early mornings, evenings and weekends is required in a dynamic coastal leisure setting.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 7 years of surf instruction experience, with at least 3 years in a supervisory/managerial role.
• Valid international surf instructor certifications (e.g., ISA Level 2 or higher) and First Aid/CPR qualifications.
• Demonstrated expertise in a variety of surfing conditions and techniques.
• Proven ability to manage operational teams, budgets and safety protocols in a demanding coastal environment.
• Strong leadership, communication and problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of coastal ecology and environmental management practices is highly desirable.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings and weekends during peak seasons.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and delivery of a comprehensive surf school curriculum for all levels, from beginner to advanced.
• Manage, train and mentor a team of certified surf instructors to ensure quality and safety.
• Oversee daily operations of the surf school and beach facilities, including equipment, scheduling and customer service.
• Enforce safety procedures and risk management for all water activities.
• Develop and manage operational budgets for cost-effectiveness and profitability.
• Organize surf clinics, camps and events to drive participation and revenue.
• Ensure compliance with local regulations and environmental guidelines for coastal operations.

Skills

Surf instruction

Team leadership

Safety protocols

Budget management

Customer service

Education

ISA Level 2 or higher certification

First Aid/ CPR certification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading coastal leisure provider based in the picturesque city of Cape Town , is actively seeking a dynamic Head Surf Instructor & Coastal Operations Manager. This senior position is critical for overseeing all aspects of surf instruction programs and managing the operational efficiency of our beach-based facilities. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and maintaining world-class surfing lessons, ensuring the highest safety standards, and managing a team of instructors and operational staff. This role demands a blend of expert surfing knowledge, exceptional leadership capabilities, and a keen understanding of coastal environmental management. Join us in Cape Town , Western Cape , and help shape an unforgettable experience for our patrons in the exciting Leisure & Sports industry.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the development and delivery of a comprehensive surf school curriculum for all levels, from beginner to advanced. Manage, train, and mentor a team of certified surf instructors, ensuring consistent quality and adherence to safety protocols. Oversee the daily operations of the surf school and associated beach facilities, including equipment management, scheduling, and customer service. Implement and enforce stringent safety procedures and risk management strategies for all water-based activities. Develop and manage operational budgets, ensuring cost-effectiveness and profitability. Organize and promote surf clinics, camps, and special events to drive participation and revenue. Ensure compliance with all local regulations and environmental protection guidelines pertaining to coastal operations. Monitor surf conditions and weather patterns to ensure safe and optimal learning environments. Collaborate with marketing teams to enhance the visibility and appeal of the surf school and associated offerings. Contribute to the strategic growth and development of the company's coastal leisure activities in Cape Town .

Requirements

Minimum of 7 years of experience in surf instruction, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or management capacity. Valid international surf instructor certifications (e.g., ISA Level 2 or higher) and First Aid/CPR qualifications. Demonstrated expertise in a variety of surfing conditions and techniques. Proven ability to manage operational teams, budgets, and safety protocols in a demanding coastal environment. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. Knowledge of coastal ecology and environmental management practices is highly desirable. Ability to work flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, and weekends, especially during peak seasons in Western Cape . A passion for surfing and a commitment to promoting ocean safety and appreciation. Experience in developing and delivering customer-centric programs.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package designed to attract top talent, along with potential performance-based incentives. Employees will receive comprehensive health benefits and a generous holiday allowance. Opportunities for ongoing professional development, including advanced coaching certifications and management training, are available. You'll have the chance to work in a breathtaking oceanfront setting in Cape Town , utilizing top-tier equipment and contributing to a vibrant beach culture. This role provides the opportunity to lead and innovate within a respected organization in the Leisure & Sports sector.