Tourism Operations Manager

Placements24; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Familiarization travel opportunities

Professional development and training

Growth-focused work environment

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a dynamic Tourism Operations Manager to lead the Eastern Cape tour operations from Port Elizabeth. You will oversee planning, execution, and quality assurance of all tour packages while guiding a team of tour guides and staff.

You will negotiate with hotels and transport providers, refine itineraries, and ensure safety and service standards across all departures. Strong logistics and customer service are essential for delivering unforgettable experiences.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in tourism operations management or a related field.
• Proven experience in managing teams and leading operational activities.
• Strong negotiation and contract management skills with suppliers.
• In-depth knowledge of the Eastern Cape region's tourism offerings and infrastructure.
• Excellent tour planning, logistics, and customer service principles.
• Proficiency in using tour operator software and standard office applications.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• A relevant qualification in Tourism Management or Hospitality is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the tour department, ensuring efficient planning and execution of all tours.
• Manage and motivate a team of tour guides, operations staff, and customer service representatives.
• Develop and maintain relationships with hotels, transport providers, activity operators, and other key suppliers in Eastern Cape.
• Negotiate contracts and rates with suppliers to ensure competitive pricing and high service quality.
• Develop and refine tour itineraries and packages to meet market demands and client expectations.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety regulations and tourism industry standards.
• Handle customer inquiries, complaints, and emergencies promptly and professionally.
• Monitor tour feedback and implement improvements to enhance the overall customer experience.
• Manage operational budgets and control costs effectively.
• Conduct quality control checks on tours and services provided.

Skills

Team leadership

Negotiation

Tourism operations

Logistics planning

Communication skills

Problem solving

Customer service

Education

Tourism Management qualification

Tools

Tour operator software

MS Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading inbound tour operator specializing in showcasing the unique attractions of the Eastern Cape, is looking for a dynamic and experienced Tourism Operations Manager. This crucial role is based in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, and involves overseeing the planning, execution, and quality assurance of all tour packages and travel arrangements. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of the tourism industry, excellent logistical skills, and a passion for delivering exceptional travel experiences. You will be responsible for managing a team of tour guides and operations staff, negotiating with service providers, and ensuring the smooth running of all tours departing from and operating within Port Elizabeth and its surrounding regions. This position offers the chance to shape memorable journeys for international and domestic travelers.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the tour department, ensuring efficient planning and execution of all tours.
• Manage and motivate a team of tour guides, operations staff, and customer service representatives.
• Develop and maintain relationships with hotels, transport providers, activity operators, and other key suppliers in Eastern Cape.
• Negotiate contracts and rates with suppliers to ensure competitive pricing and high service quality.
• Develop and refine tour itineraries and packages to meet market demands and client expectations.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety regulations and tourism industry standards.
• Handle customer inquiries, complaints, and emergencies promptly and professionally.
• Monitor tour feedback and implement improvements to enhance the overall customer experience.
• Manage operational budgets and control costs effectively.
• Conduct quality control checks on tours and services provided.

Requirements

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in tourism operations management or a related field.
• Proven experience in managing teams and leading operational activities.
• Strong negotiation and contract management skills with suppliers.
• In-depth knowledge of the Eastern Cape region's tourism offerings and infrastructure.
• Excellent understanding of tour planning, logistics, and customer service principles.
• Proficiency in using tour operator software and standard office applications.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• A relevant qualification in Tourism Management or Hospitality is advantageous.
• Passion for travel and delivering exceptional guest experiences in Port Elizabeth.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package.
• Opportunity to work in a vibrant tourism hub.
• Company-provided travel opportunities for familiarization trips.
• Health insurance and other statutory benefits.
• Professional development and training in the tourism sector.
• A supportive and dynamic work environment focused on growth and excellence.
• Be part of a company that promotes the beauty of the Eastern Cape.