Operations Coordinator - Tourism & Hospitality

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an organized Operations Coordinator for a Durban-based travel operations role. You will coordinate bookings, liaise with suppliers, and manage itineraries to ensure smooth delivery of exceptional travel experiences.

The ideal candidate holds a Diploma or Bachelor’s in Tourism/Hospitality or related field with 2–3 years’ operations experience and strong MS Office skills. Join a dynamic team focused on client satisfaction and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Tourism Management, Hospitality, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2–3 years of experience in operations coordination, preferably within tourism or hospitality.
• Strong understanding of travel booking systems and processes.
• Excellent organizational skills with keen eye for detail and accuracy.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for liaising with clients and suppliers.
• Ability to multitask and manage a demanding workload in a fast-paced office environment.
• Problem-solving skills and the ability to handle stressful situations calmly.
• A proactive and customer-focused attitude.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Durban for full-time employment.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate daily operational activities related to tour packages and travel arrangements.
• Manage bookings, confirmations, and payments with suppliers (hotels, transport, tour guides).
• Prepare and distribute detailed travel itineraries to clients and internal teams.
• Monitor supplier performance and address any service discrepancies or issues promptly.
• Assist in resolving client queries and operational challenges during their travel.
• Maintain accurate operational records and update booking systems.
• Liaise with the sales and marketing teams to ensure operational feasibility of promotions.
• Contribute to the development and refinement of operational processes and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations and company policies.
• Provide support to the operations manager and other team members as needed.

Skills

Organizational skills

Communication

Multitasking

Problem-solving

Proactive attitude

Customer-focused

Attention to detail

Education

Diploma or Bachelor’s in Tourism/Hospitality/Business Admin

Tools

MS Word

MS Excel

MS Outlook

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic tour operator based in the bustling coastal city of Durban , is seeking an organized and proactive Operations Coordinator. This full-time, office-based role is essential for ensuring the smooth and efficient delivery of exceptional travel experiences to their clients. You will be the backbone of the operations team, coordinating bookings, liaising with suppliers, managing travel itineraries, and addressing any operational issues that may arise. The ideal candidate is meticulous, possesses excellent communication skills, and has a passion for the tourism and hospitality industry. This position offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the travel sector, contributing to memorable journeys for clients. You will work closely with the sales, marketing, and reservations teams to ensure seamless operations and outstanding customer satisfaction. Our client values dedication, attention to detail, and a customer-centric approach in a busy office environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate daily operational activities related to tour packages and travel arrangements.
• Manage bookings, confirmations, and payments with suppliers (hotels, transport, tour guides).
• Prepare and distribute detailed travel itineraries to clients and internal teams.
• Monitor supplier performance and address any service discrepancies or issues promptly.
• Assist in resolving client queries and operational challenges during their travel.
• Maintain accurate operational records and update booking systems.
• Liaise with the sales and marketing teams to ensure operational feasibility of promotions.
• Contribute to the development and refinement of operational processes and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations and company policies.
• Provide support to the operations manager and other team members as needed.

Requirements

• Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Tourism Management, Hospitality, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in operations coordination, preferably within the tourism or hospitality sector.
• Strong understanding of travel booking systems and processes.
• Excellent organizational skills with a keen eye for detail and accuracy.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for liaising with clients and suppliers.
• Ability to multitask and manage a demanding workload in a fast-paced office environment.
• Problem-solving skills and the ability to handle stressful situations calmly.
• A proactive and customer-focused attitude.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Durban for full-time employment.

Benefits

• This role offers a competitive salary and the opportunity to grow within a thriving tourism company.
• You will gain valuable experience in the operations of a leading tour operator.
• Our client provides a supportive and team-oriented office environment in the vibrant city of Durban.
• Opportunities for travel familiarization trips may be available.
• Further details on benefits, such as potential for bonuses and leave days, will be discussed during the interview stage.