Tourism Development Manager

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 750,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Tourism Development Manager to lead strategic growth in Port Elizabeth and the Eastern Cape. You will identify opportunities, build partnerships, and drive sustainable project delivery across public and private sectors.

The role requires strong market insight, project leadership and a proven ability to secure funding while promoting regional tourism assets. Hybrid work presence is offered.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in tourism planning, development or management.
• Proven track record in project management and stakeholder engagement.
• Strong understanding of tourism market trends and sustainable principles.
• Excellent research, analytical and strategic planning skills.
• Exceptional communication, presentation and negotiation abilities.
• Experience working with government agencies and private sector partners.
• Relevant degree in Tourism Management, Urban Planning, Economics, or related field.

Responsibilities

• Identify, assess and champion new tourism development opportunities.
• Develop and implement strategic plans for tourism growth with sustainability focus.
• Build and maintain relationships with local government, tourism businesses and stakeholders.
• Conduct market research and feasibility studies to inform strategies.
• Support marketing and promotion of the Eastern Cape as a destination.
• Facilitate infrastructure development and service quality improvements.
• Seek funding and investment for tourism projects.
• Monitor and report on progress; represent the organization at events.

Skills

5+ years experience

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Research & analysis

Strategic planning

Communication & negotiation

Government/private sector experience

Education

Tourism Management degree

Urban Planning degree

Economics degree

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pivotal organization within the Eastern Cape's tourism sector, is seeking a strategic and results-oriented Tourism Development Manager to join their team in Port Elizabeth. This role is instrumental in fostering sustainable growth and enhancing the region's appeal as a premier tourist destination. The successful candidate will be responsible for identifying new tourism opportunities, developing innovative projects, and forging strong partnerships with stakeholders across the public and private sectors. You will play a key part in shaping the future of tourism in the Eastern Cape, driving economic development, and promoting the unique attractions of Port Elizabeth and its surroundings. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate advocate of tourism to lead impactful initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify, assess, and champion new tourism development opportunities and projects within the Eastern Cape.
• Develop and implement strategic plans for tourism growth, focusing on sustainability and economic impact.
• Build and maintain strong collaborative relationships with local government, tourism businesses, community groups, and other stakeholders.
• Conduct market research and feasibility studies to inform development strategies.
• Support the marketing and promotion of the Eastern Cape as a tourist destination.
• Facilitate infrastructure development and service quality improvements in key tourism areas.
• Seek funding and investment for tourism projects through grants, partnerships, and other financial instruments.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of tourism initiatives and report on progress.
• Represent the organization at industry events and forums.

Requirements

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in tourism planning, development, or management.
• Proven track record in project management and stakeholder engagement.
• Strong understanding of the tourism industry, market trends, and sustainable tourism principles.
• Excellent research, analytical, and strategic planning skills.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and negotiation abilities.
• Experience in working with government agencies and private sector partners.
• A relevant degree in Tourism Management, Urban Planning, Economics, or a related field.
• Familiarity with the Port Elizabeth and Eastern Cape tourism landscape is advantageous.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, often in a hybrid work model.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to significantly influence the tourism landscape of the Eastern Cape.
• Exposure to a wide range of stakeholders and industry leaders.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Contribution to regional economic growth and job creation.
• A dynamic role with a blend of strategic planning and practical implementation in Port Elizabeth.