Senior Adventure Tourism Operations Manager

Placements24; Randburg; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Retirement savings plan

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Adventure Tourism Operations Manager to lead end-to-end operations for adventure tours in Randburg, Gauteng. You will supervise guides and staff, drive safety standards, manage logistics, and shape operational procedures to deliver exceptional guest experiences.

The role emphasizes strong leadership, budget control, and regulatory compliance while fostering a culture of safety and service excellence across activities originating from Randburg.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Tourism Management, Hospitality, Business Administration or related field.
• Minimum 7 years of progressive adventure tourism operations management experience.
• Experience leading teams, budgets, and complex outdoor activities.
• Certifications in First Aid or Wilderness First Responder desirable.
• Strong leadership, communication, problem-solving and decision-making skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee planning, execution, and delivery of all adventure activities and tours.
• Ensure highest standards of safety, risk management, and emergency preparedness.
• Lead and train a team of adventure guides and operational staff.
• Develop and refine procedures, protocols, and training programs.
• Manage equipment inventory, maintenance, and procurement.
• Control budgets to ensure cost-effectiveness and profitability.
• Foster relationships with suppliers, communities, and regulatory bodies.
• Monitor guest feedback and implement improvements to enhance the experience.
• Ensure compliance with safety and tourism regulations.
• Contribute to new adventure products and itineraries.
• Conduct regular site inspections and operational audits.
• Maintain detailed records of operations, safety incidents, and staff performance.
• Promote safety, professionalism, and customer service across the team.

Skills

Leadership

Risk management

Logistics

Team management

Communication

Problem-solving

Decision-making

MS Office

Education

Bachelor's degree in Tourism Management / Hospitality / Business Administration

Tools

MS Office Suite

Operational software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading provider of high-quality adventure tourism experiences, is seeking a seasoned and dynamic Senior Adventure Tourism Operations Manager to lead their operations based in the vibrant city of Randburg, Gauteng. This critical role involves the end-to-end management of all adventure tours and activities, ensuring exceptional safety standards, operational efficiency, and unparalleled customer satisfaction. The successful candidate will oversee a team of guides and operational staff, manage logistics, develop and refine operational procedures, and ensure compliance with all relevant industry regulations. A deep passion for adventure, strong leadership abilities, and extensive experience in managing complex outdoor operations are essential for this role in the diverse landscape surrounding Randburg.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of all adventure tourism activities and tours.
• Ensure the highest standards of safety, risk management, and emergency preparedness are implemented and maintained.
• Manage, train, and lead a team of experienced adventure guides and operational staff.
• Develop and refine operational procedures, protocols, and training programs for all activities.
• Manage equipment inventory, maintenance schedules, and procurement for all operational needs.
• Control operational budgets, ensuring cost-effectiveness and profitability.
• Foster strong relationships with suppliers, local communities, and regulatory bodies.
• Monitor customer feedback and implement improvements to enhance the guest experience.
• Ensure compliance with all local, national, and international safety and tourism regulations.
• Contribute to the development of new adventure products and tour itineraries.
• Conduct regular site inspections and operational audits.
• Maintain detailed records of operations, safety incidents, and staff performance.
• Promote a culture of safety, professionalism, and exceptional customer service among the operations team.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Tourism Management, Hospitality, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in adventure tourism operations management, with a strong emphasis on safety and logistics.
• Proven experience in managing teams, budgets, and complex outdoor activities.
• Extensive knowledge of risk management principles in outdoor and adventure environments.
• Certifications in First Aid, Wilderness First Responder, or similar is highly desirable.
• Excellent leadership, communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage dynamic operational challenges.
• Strong understanding of logistics, equipment management, and supplier relations.
• A genuine passion for adventure sports and the outdoors.
• Willingness to travel and work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays, as operational demands require for activities originating from Randburg.
• Proficiency in relevant operational software and MS Office Suite.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience and leadership capabilities, along with performance-based incentives. This role includes comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, a retirement savings plan, and generous paid time off. Opportunities for professional development, including advanced safety certifications and management training, are provided. You will have the unique opportunity to manage thrilling adventure experiences and contribute to the growth of the tourism sector in Gauteng. Our client fosters a dynamic, collaborative, and adventurous work culture. Join a team dedicated to delivering unforgettable outdoor adventures and upholding the highest safety standards from our base in Randburg.