Water Sports Centre Manager

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 660,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary with incentives

Accommodation allowance for relocation

Access to water sports equipment

Professional development opportunities

Coastal work environment

Health and safety training

Job summary

Placements24 invites an experienced Water Sports Centre Manager to lead operations at a premier coastal facility in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. You will oversee safety, staff, programming, and customer experience, driving revenue through dynamic offerings and strong partnerships.

The role requires hands-on leadership, expertise in water sports, and a passion for delivering memorable experiences for beginners to enthusiasts, in a vibrant seaside setting.

Qualifications

• Proven experience managing a water sports facility, recreational centre, or similar operation.
• Strong background in at least one major water sport (e.g., surfing, sailing, kayaking).
• Certifications in lifesaving, first aid, and relevant water sports instruction (ISA, RYA).
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Budget management, operational planning, and risk assessment experience.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the water sports centre and ensure smooth service delivery.
• Lead a team of water sports instructors, guides, and staff with training and feedback.
• Develop and market diverse water sports programs (kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, surfing).
• Ensure safety regulations and emergency procedures are followed.
• Manage equipment maintenance and inventory.
• Prepare and manage the centre's budget and control expenses.
• Build relations with local tourism operators and community groups.
• Handle customer inquiries and feedback professionally.
• Implement marketing and promotions to attract bookings.
• Organise events, competitions, and corporate bookings.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Budget management

Risk assessment

Customer service

Education

Lifesaving certification

First aid certification

ISA certification

RYA certification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier recreational facility on the coast, is seeking a dedicated and experienced Water Sports Centre Manager to oversee operations at their vibrant location in **Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal**. This role is crucial for ensuring the highest standards of safety, customer service, and operational efficiency for all water-based activities. The Manager will be responsible for leading a team of instructors and support staff, managing equipment maintenance, developing and delivering engaging water sports programs, and driving revenue growth for the centre. We are looking for an individual with a strong background in water sports, exceptional leadership capabilities, and a passion for providing memorable experiences to visitors. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of safety protocols, risk management, and customer relations within a marine or aquatic environment. This is a hands-on role that requires active participation in daily operations and a commitment to fostering a safe and fun atmosphere for all participants, from beginners to experienced enthusiasts. The **Richards Bay** setting offers a unique and dynamic environment for this exciting leadership opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations of the water sports centre, ensuring smooth and efficient service delivery.
• Manage and lead a team of water sports instructors, guides, and support staff, providing training and performance feedback.
• Develop, implement, and market a diverse range of water sports programs and activities (e.g., kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, surfing lessons).
• Ensure strict adherence to all safety regulations and emergency procedures for water-based activities.
• Manage inventory and maintenance schedules for all water sports equipment, ensuring it is in safe and optimal working condition.
• Develop and manage the centre's budget, controlling expenses and identifying opportunities for revenue enhancement.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with local tourism operators, hotels, and community organizations.
• Handle customer inquiries, complaints, and feedback promptly and professionally.
• Implement marketing and promotional strategies to attract new customers and increase bookings.
• Organize and oversee special events, competitions, and corporate bookings.

Requirements

• Proven experience in managing a water sports facility, recreational centre, or similar leisure operation.
• Strong background in at least one major water sport (e.g., surfing, sailing, kayaking, diving).
• Certifications in lifesaving, first aid, and relevant water sports instruction (e.g., ISA, RYA).
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability in budget management, operational planning, and risk assessment.
• Customer-focused approach with strong problem-solving abilities.
• Knowledge of marine safety regulations and environmental best practices.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and public holidays, as required.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to **Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal**.
• A valid driver's license is preferred.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with performance-based incentives.
• Accommodation allowance may be considered for relocating candidates.
• Access to and use of the facility's water sports equipment.
• Opportunities for professional development and advanced certifications.
• A stunning coastal work environment.
• Health and safety training provision.
• Discounts on activities and services for employees and their families.
• Be part of a growing and dynamic leisure operation.