Surf School Director & Coastal Operations Leader

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Generous holiday allowance

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Head Surf Instructor & Coastal Operations Manager in Cape Town to lead the surf school program and coastal operations. You will guide curriculum development, mentor instructors, and ensure top safety standards across beach facilities.

You will manage budgets, coordinate clinics and events, and work with marketing to grow participation. Flexibility for early mornings, evenings and weekends is required in a dynamic coastal leisure setting.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 7 years of surf instruction experience, with at least 3 years in a supervisory/managerial role.
• Valid international surf instructor certifications (e.g., ISA Level 2 or higher) and First Aid/CPR qualifications.
• Demonstrated expertise in a variety of surfing conditions and techniques.
• Proven ability to manage operational teams, budgets and safety protocols in a demanding coastal environment.
• Strong leadership, communication and problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of coastal ecology and environmental management practices is highly desirable.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings and weekends during peak seasons.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and delivery of a comprehensive surf school curriculum for all levels, from beginner to advanced.
• Manage, train and mentor a team of certified surf instructors to ensure quality and safety.
• Oversee daily operations of the surf school and beach facilities, including equipment, scheduling and customer service.
• Enforce safety procedures and risk management for all water activities.
• Develop and manage operational budgets for cost-effectiveness and profitability.
• Organize surf clinics, camps and events to drive participation and revenue.
• Ensure compliance with local regulations and environmental guidelines for coastal operations.

Skills

Surf instruction

Team leadership

Safety protocols

Budget management

Customer service

Education

ISA Level 2 or higher certification

First Aid/ CPR certification

Job description

Placements24 seeks a Head Surf Instructor & Coastal Operations Manager in Cape Town to lead the surf school program and coastal operations. You will guide curriculum development, mentor instructors, and ensure top safety standards across beach facilities.

You will manage budgets, coordinate clinics and events, and work with marketing to grow participation. Flexibility for early mornings, evenings and weekends is required in a dynamic coastal leisure setting.