Tourism Operations Manager

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Travel opportunities

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, seeks an experienced Tourism Operations Manager to oversee adventure and cultural tour operations, ensuring high-quality guest experiences.

You will lead an operations team, manage supplier networks, enforce safety standards, and drive efficiency and profitability across all tours.

This role offers opportunities for regional travel and professional development.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years in tourism operations or a related role.
• Experience managing complex logistics and supplier networks.
• Strong knowledge of safety regulations and risk management.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills.
• Proficient in booking systems and operations software.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day operations of all tours and activities.
• Develop relationships with suppliers, guides, and transport providers.
• Enforce health, safety, and risk management protocols.
• Oversee booking systems, resources, and budgets.
• Train and supervise operations staff and guides.
• Continuously seek ways to enhance tour products and efficiency.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem solving

Operations management

Risk management

Budgeting

Supplier management

Guest service

Team leadership

Tools

Booking systems

Operational software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is searching for a highly organized and experienced Tourism Operations Manager to oversee the diverse operational aspects of their adventure and cultural tourism offerings in the scenic Mossel Bay region. This critical role ensures the smooth delivery of high-quality tour experiences, manages supplier relationships, and maintains stringent safety standards. You will lead a dedicated operations team, focusing on customer satisfaction, efficiency, and profitability. This is an excellent opportunity to shape the visitor experience in a prime Western Cape tourism hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the day-to-day operations of all tours and activities, ensuring seamless execution and exceptional customer service.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with local suppliers, guides, and transport providers.
• Implement and enforce rigorous health, safety, and risk management protocols for all operations.
• Oversee booking systems, resource allocation, and operational budgets to ensure efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Train and manage a team of operational staff, guides, and support personnel.
• Continuously seek opportunities to enhance the tour product and operational efficiency based on market trends and customer feedback.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in tourism operations management or a related role in the travel industry.
• Demonstrated experience in managing complex logistical operations and supplier networks.
• Strong understanding of safety regulations and risk management in the tourism sector.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in booking systems and operational software.
• A passion for the tourism industry and delivering outstanding guest experiences.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for travel and exploration within the region.
• A dynamic and rewarding work environment with a focus on adventure and discovery.
• Professional development and training opportunities.