Product Manager (Travel & Tourism & Sports Division)

Black Pen Recruitment; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency in Johannesburg is seeking an experienced Product Manager for their Sports & Events division. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in sports management, strong project management capabilities, and knowledge of sports travel logistics. This full-time position requires someone passionate about sports and capable of designing operational systems to enhance event experiences. The role offers a dynamic work environment focused on delivering exceptional quality and service.

Qualifications

• 5–10 years of experience in sports management or events.
• Strong understanding of international sports calendars.
• Familiarity with sports travel logistics.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement operational systems to scale events.
• Streamline workflows and improve cost efficiencies.
• Drive sustainable revenue growth while maintaining excellence.

Skills

Sports management

Sports tourism

Project management

Communication skills

Job description

Product Manager (Travel/Tourism/Sports Division)

Johannesburg, South Africa

About the job

Our client is Southern Africas leading integrated tourism group, operating businesses which range from travel management companies, hotels, lodges and restaurants to craft, curio and jewellery shops and foreign exchange bureaux. They are driven by a commitment to exceptional quality, service and value; its people-centred business philosophy; the development of mutually rewarding partnerships; constant innovation; and world-class technology.

Role Overview

Our client is looking for a Product Manager with a passion for sports, to design and implement operational systems in their Sports & Events department.

Job Details

Job Location: Bryanston

Job Type: Full-time

Workplace: Onsite

Requirements

• Proven experience in sports management, sports tourism, or events (5–10+ years at senior level).
• Strong understanding of international sporting calendars, event cycles, and governing bodies (e.g., FIFA, ICC, IOC, CAF).
• Familiarity with sports travel logistics (ticketing, accommodation, transport, hospitality packages).
• Awareness of compliance and regulatory frameworks (visas, insurance, safety standards).
• Highly organised, adaptable, and able to work under tight event-driven deadlines.
• Passion for sport, with a genuine interest in fan experience and event excellence.
• Culturally sensitive and able to navigate cross-border dynamics (essential in African and global sports environments).
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.

Responsibilities

Operational & Strategic Skills

• Ability to design and implement operational systems to scale events and sports travel programmes.
• Skilled in process optimisation: streamlining workflows, improving cost efficiencies, and ensuring profitability.
• Strong project management skills with ability to coordinate multiple stakeholders across regions.
• Data-driven approach to planning and decision-making (budgets, ROI analysis, forecasting).

Commercial & Business Acumen

• Experience in contract negotiation with suppliers, federations, and venues.
• Proven ability to drive sustainable revenue growth while maintaining operational excellence.
• Understanding of sports sponsorships, partnerships, and brand activations.