About the Role
Our client, a premier adventure travel company specializing in curated experiences across South Africa, is seeking a Senior Tour Operations Manager to be based in or near Port Elizabeth . This role is essential for designing, managing, and executing high-quality adventure tours, ensuring exceptional client satisfaction and operational efficiency. The ideal candidate will have a passion for the outdoors, extensive knowledge of South African tourism, and a proven ability to manage complex logistical operations. This position offers a Yes remote work arrangement, allowing the successful candidate to contribute to our dynamic team from their chosen location, with an emphasis on operational excellence and seamless tour delivery for our clients across diverse landscapes. This is a key role within the Leisure & Sports sector, focusing on creating unforgettable adventure experiences for domestic and international travelers. The role demands excellent coordination and a deep understanding of the region's adventure tourism offerings.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, develop, and manage a portfolio of adventure tour packages, ensuring quality and profitability.
- Oversee all aspects of tour operations, including logistics, transportation, accommodation, and activity coordination.
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with local suppliers, guides, and service providers.
- Ensure adherence to all safety protocols, risk management procedures, and regulatory compliance.
- Manage operational budgets, monitor costs, and implement cost-saving measures where appropriate.
- Handle customer inquiries, feedback, and issue resolution with professionalism and efficiency.
- Train and manage a team of tour coordinators and operational staff.
- Continuously research and identify new tour opportunities and product enhancements.
- Monitor industry trends and competitor activities to maintain a competitive edge.
- Create and update operational manuals and training materials for staff and guides.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Tourism Management, Hospitality, Business Administration, or a related field.
- Minimum of 6 years of experience in tour operations management, preferably within adventure travel or the Leisure & Sports industry.
- Extensive knowledge of South African geography, culture, and adventure tourism hotspots, particularly around the Eastern Cape.
- Proven experience in managing remote teams and coordinating complex logistical operations.
- Strong understanding of risk management and safety procedures in outdoor and adventure activities.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
- Proficiency in tour operating software and standard office applications.
- Ability to work independently and manage workload effectively in a Yes remote setting.
- Passion for outdoor adventure and a commitment to sustainable tourism practices.
- Fluency in English; proficiency in other languages is an advantage.
Benefits
- Our client offers a competitive salary structure, reflective of the experience and responsibilities of the role, with potential for performance-based bonuses.
- Health and wellness benefits are provided, including access to mental health support resources.
- Opportunities for professional development, such as wilderness first aid certification and advanced tour guiding courses, are supported.
- Employees benefit from discounted travel opportunities on company tours and partner expeditions.
- Generous paid time off and flexible remote working arrangements are standard.
- A contribution towards home office setup is provided to ensure an optimal remote work environment.
Join our passionate team dedicated to delivering exceptional adventure experiences in the Leisure & Sports sector, contributing to the vibrant tourism landscape near Port Elizabeth .