Senior Project Manager - Winelands Tourism Development

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Hybrid work model

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch seeks a Senior Project Manager to drive strategic initiatives across infrastructure, events, marketing, and community programs in the Western Cape Winelands. You will plan, execute, and close complex projects while coordinating internal teams, external consultants, and local partners.

You'll shape tourism growth, manage budgets, monitor risks, and report outcomes to leadership, with a flexible hybrid work setup and opportunities to influence the region's visitor

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field is required or equivalent.
• 7+ years of proven project management experience in tourism, hospitality, or community development.
• Strong leadership, stakeholder engagement, and negotiation skills.
• Experience with grant management and funding applications is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive project plans with scope, budgets, and timelines.
• Lead cross‑functional teams from initiation to closure and monitor progress.
• Manage stakeholders, incl. local government, tourism bodies, and businesses.
• Identify and mitigate project risks and manage budgets within constraints.
• Oversee vendor selection and ensure timely delivery of services.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Communication

Negotiation

Project management

Budget management

Risk management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Project Management, Business Administration, Tourism Management, or related field

Master's degree

Tools

MS Project

Asana

Trello

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent development agency focused on enhancing the tourism landscape of the Western Cape Winelands, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Project Manager. This role is central to driving strategic initiatives that boost economic growth and improve visitor experiences in the region. You will be responsible for the planning, execution, and successful completion of diverse projects, ranging from infrastructure improvements and event management to marketing campaigns and community engagement programs. The ideal candidate will possess a strong blend of project management expertise, an understanding of the tourism and hospitality sector, and a passion for regional development. This position offers a dynamic hybrid work environment, allowing for collaborative planning and on-site engagement. Based in the picturesque town of Stellenbosch, Western Cape, this role presents a unique opportunity to shape the future of one of South Africa's most iconic destinations. We are seeking a leader who can inspire teams and deliver tangible results for the Stellenbosch community and its tourism industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive project plans, defining scope, objectives, budgets, and timelines.
• Manage all project phases, from initiation and planning to execution, monitoring, control, and closure.
• Lead and motivate cross-functional project teams, including internal staff, external consultants, and community partners.
• Ensure effective stakeholder management and communication, particularly with local government, tourism bodies, and businesses.
• Identify, assess, and mitigate project risks and issues proactively.
• Oversee budget management, ensuring projects are delivered within financial constraints.
• Monitor project progress, track key performance indicators, and report on outcomes to senior leadership.
• Facilitate community engagement and ensure project benefits are widely shared.
• Manage vendor selection and contract administration for project-related services.
• Drive innovation and best practices in project delivery within the tourism sector.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Project Management, Business Administration, Tourism Management, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is an advantage.
• Minimum of 7 years of proven experience in project management, with significant experience in tourism, hospitality, or community development projects.
• Demonstrated success in managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong understanding of the tourism industry dynamics and the Western Cape Winelands region.
• Excellent leadership, communication, stakeholder engagement, and negotiation skills.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Asana, Trello).
• Ability to develop and manage project budgets effectively.
• Experience with grant management and funding applications is desirable.
• Residing in or near Stellenbosch, Western Cape, or willing to commute regularly is essential.

Benefits

• This role offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including medical aid and a provident fund.
• The hybrid work model supports a healthy work-life balance.
• You will have the opportunity to work on high-impact projects that contribute directly to the economic and cultural vitality of the Western Cape Winelands.
• Professional development and networking opportunities within the tourism sector are abundant.