Senior Operations Specialist - Trade

Wildernessdestinations; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A travel and tourism company in South Africa is seeking an experienced Operations Specialist to manage the booking processes and liaise with travel designers and suppliers. This role requires a minimum of 6-7 years’ experience in the Travel and Tourism industry, strong communication and attention to detail, as well as proficiency in Microsoft Office and CRM systems. A passion for wildlife and commitment to sustainability is advantageous. This position is based in Johannesburg or Cape Town.

Qualifications

• 6-7 years’ experience in Travel and Tourism.
• Excellent geographic knowledge of Southern & East Africa.
• Personal or educational travel experience is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Develop Stakeholder relationships with travel designers and suppliers.
• Update booking information in the system and maintain CRM.
• Confirm and manage all service bookings as per terms.

Skills

Excellent communication skills in English

Attention to detail

Financial understanding

Education

Matric certificate with maths (minimum standard grade)

Tertiary certificate in Travel & Tourism/hospitality

Tools

Microsoft Office

Email

Teams

Excel

Internet browsers

Job description

PRIMARY PURPOSE

Operations specialists, to fill a full operations role in the booking process, working in hand with the Travel Designers, but being the first line in relationships with suppliers and administration of the entire backend of each booking made by the Travel Designer. To secure the booking with all services providers including travel designers accurately, efficiently, timeously and with zero errors. Team worker and ability to interface with various departments.

This position is based in Johannesburg or Cape Town

Detailed Responsibilities

• Develop Stakeholder relationships by liaising with travel designers on all bookings in an operational capacity and continuous communication with suppliers and internal sales.
• Keep all booking information updated in the system ensuring Customer Relationship Management (CRM) is continually up to date
• Reconfirm all services as per the Wilderness Safaris Terms & Conditions
• Keep updated with all WS and AP product updates, as well as technology updates
• Contact suppliers in writing to confirm or cancel relevant services giving them all special requirements
• Maintain booking file (electronically) which has been processed by the Travel Designer
• Escalate complaints that could negatively affect long‑term relationships, to relevant Managers
• Feedback to all properties where guests are due to travel to mitigate complaints down the line

CANDIDATE PROFILE

Qualification:

• Matric certificate –with maths(minimum standard grade or above)
• Tertiary certificate in Travel & Tourism/hospitality

Experience:

• Minimum of 6‑7 years’ experience in Travel and Tourism
• Computer Literate (Microsoft Office, Email, Teams, Excel, Internet browsers)
• Excellent product and geographic knowledge on Southern & East Africa
• Personal or educational travel experience advantageous

Skills:

• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and oral
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy in data capturing
• A good financial understanding

Interests:

A passion for wildlife and a commitment to sustainability and conservation.

Apply for this position with us on WhatsApp. Simply send the word ‘Hi’ to [phone]