South Africa: Assistance Meetings and Event Manager posted by Kendrick Recruitment

Position Overview

The Assistant Meetings & Events Manager will be responsible for managing the full reservations process for group bookings and assisting in the planning and coordination of all group stays. The role reports directly to the Meetings & Events Manager and requires exceptional communication, administrative precision and the ability to confidently manage complex itineraries and stakeholder requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Event and Group Booking Process

• Manage all event and group enquiries via email.

• Prepare accurate and timely event quotations.

• Maintain organised records, documentation and filing systems.

• Use OPERA for reservations, block management, billing and room allocations.

• Coordinate invoicing and ensure correct financial reconciliation after events.

• Plan arrival and departure logistics, including rooming lists, itineraries and detailed function sheets.

Sales Support

• Work closely with the Sales team on rates, packages and proposal development.

Client Relationship Management and Site Inspections

• Serve as a secondary point of contact for group organisers and event planners.

• Assist the Meetings & Events Manager during site inspections.

• Build and maintain professional relationships with agents, tour operators and corporate clients.

• Provide excellent pre-arrival communication and support.

Operational Delivery

• Occasionally assist lodge operations to ensure the smooth running of group events and activities.

Required Skills and Competencies

• Minimum 2 years experience in groups or events management within a luxury lodge, hotel or hospitality environment.

• Strong administrative, organisational and coordination skills.

• Excellent interpersonal and communication abilities.

• Ability to work under pressure, multitask and meet strict deadlines.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).

• Experience with OPERA PMS is a strong advantage.

• Professional, calm and solutions-driven manner.

• Strong ability to coordinate across multiple departments.

Qualifications

• Hospitality, Tourism or Events Planning qualification preferred.

• Experience within a game reserve or remote lodge environment is advantageous.

Package

• Salary: R18,000 R20,000, negotiable dependent on experience.