Johannesburg: Groups Operations Consultant

Location: Sandton, Johannesburg Key Responsibilities Coordinate and execute land tour programs and special events. Support the administrative preparation and management of travel files, ensuring operational efficiency and consistent quality control. Travel with groups when required and provide on-site coordination. Collaborate with the Groups & Incentives Reservations Manager and Operations Manager to maintain a strong commercial focus, ensuring files are profitable and aligned with margin guidelines. Provide ongoing support to the Groups & Incentives team. Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, ensuring service level standards are upheld. Liaise with the accounts team to ensure timely collection of payments and flag potential bad debt. Maintain accurate and current records of all confirmed services. Assist in preparing travel documents and operating schedules for timely distribution. Ensure compliance with international and national travel regulations and restrictions when planning and executing group travel. Offer constructive recommendations to management to enhance guest experiences and service delivery. Report and escalate all guest or client complaints promptly to the Operations Manager and Groups Reservations Manager. Remain on call for major emergencies and communicate immediately with the client and Regional Touring Manager. Support special projects and perform additional duties as assigned by management. Knowledge Required Extensive knowledge of the tourism industry, including destination management, market trends, and customer service expectations. Strong understanding of terms and conditions, product portfolios, and destinations across Southern and East Africa. Business acumen for strategy formulation and commercial decision-making. Familiarity with crisis and emergency response protocols. Qualifications Required Minimum of 45 years of experience in inbound tour consulting or group travel coordination. Skills Required Strong administrative capabilities with a high level of attention to detail. Excellent organizational and time-management skills; proven ability to perform in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments. Composure and clarity in high-pressure and emergency situations. Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to present and report effectively. Proficiency in reservation and planning systems (Tourplan preferred), WETU, and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel essential). Financial literacy, including budgeting, costing, and yield management. Strong analytical and negotiation skills. Creative experience design (experiential crafting). Understanding of global travel markets and industry channels. Personal Attributes Detail-oriented and proactive. Adaptable and responsive to shifting priorities. Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities. Multi-tasker with a high level of service orientation. Effective in team environments with strong interpersonal skills. Skilled in conflict resolution and relationship management.