Regional Operations Manager - Adventure Tourism

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development

Discounts on activities

Accommodation assistance

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Regional Operations Manager to oversee Mpumalanga adventure activities from Nelspruit. You will lead operating teams, ensure safety and quality, and optimise service delivery across all activities.

A Bachelor's degree with at least five years in operations management within adventure tourism or hospitality is required. You will manage budgets, resources, and cultivate a safety-first culture.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in operations management, with adventure tourism or hospitality focus.
• Proven leadership and safety management experience.
• Ability to manage budgets and allocate resources.
• First Aid certification and adventure activity certifications desirable.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of adventure activities in the region; ensure safety and quality standards.
• Lead operational staff including guides, maintenance crews, and customer service reps.
• Develop and implement operational plans, schedules and resource allocations to optimise efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols, risk management and regulatory requirements.
• Manage regional budgets, control costs and ensure profitability.
• Maintain equipment and facilities to meet safety standards.
• Monitor guest feedback and implement improvements to enhance experience.
• Collaborate with marketing and sales to support promotions and bookings.
• Train and develop staff, fostering safety, professionalism and customer focus.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Safety management

Operations planning

Team supervision

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic leader in the adventure tourism sector, is seeking an experienced and resourceful Regional Operations Manager to oversee its operations in the Mpumalanga region, based in Nelspruit . This key role is responsible for ensuring the seamless and safe delivery of a wide range of adventure activities, managing operational teams, and maintaining high standards of customer service. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in operations management, a passion for outdoor adventure, and proven experience in staff supervision and resource allocation. You will play a vital role in driving operational efficiency, fostering a strong safety culture, and contributing to the growth of our adventure tourism offerings in this picturesque region. The position offers an exciting opportunity to lead operations in one of South Africa's most scenic areas, Nelspruit, Mpumalanga .

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of all adventure activities within the designated region, ensuring safety and quality standards are met.
• Manage and lead a team of operational staff, including activity guides, maintenance crews, and customer service representatives.
• Develop and implement operational plans, schedules, and resource allocations to optimize efficiency and service delivery.
• Ensure strict adherence to all safety protocols, risk management procedures, and regulatory compliance requirements.
• Manage operational budgets, controlling costs and ensuring profitability within the region.
• Maintain equipment and facilities, ensuring they are in excellent condition and meet safety standards.
• Monitor customer feedback and implement improvements to enhance the overall guest experience.
• Collaborate with the marketing and sales teams to support promotional activities and drive bookings.
• Train and develop staff, fostering a culture of safety, professionalism, and customer focus.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Tourism Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in operations management, with a significant focus on the adventure tourism or hospitality industry.
• Proven experience in managing diverse operational teams and ensuring high standards of safety.
• Strong understanding of risk management and safety protocols in outdoor adventure environments.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with budget management and resource allocation.
• First Aid and relevant adventure activity certifications are highly desirable.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and make sound decisions under pressure.
• Passion for outdoor activities and a commitment to sustainable tourism practices.

Benefits

This hybrid role allows for strategic planning at a central location combined with on-site operational oversight. Employees will work in a stimulating environment surrounded by natural beauty and engage with a passionate team. The opportunity to contribute to a growing and reputable adventure tourism brand is significant.

• Our client offers a competitive salary and performance-based bonus structure.
• Benefits include medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and opportunities for professional development and specialized training.
• Discounts on company activities and potential for accommodation assistance may be offered.
• Career advancement opportunities within the company are available.