South Africa: Reservation Manager | Johannesburg posted by J D Specialized Recruitment

January 27, 2026 Jobs in South Africa

J D Specialized Recruitment

ZA

Catering / hospitality

Job Description

is assisting a safari company with a portfolio of luxury lodges and private reserves in Zambia in the recruitment of an experienced professional to join their Johannesburg (Rosebank) office as The Reservation Manager will lead a new reservations department. This is a senior, strategic role responsible for driving reservations accuracy, system excellence, team leadership, and delivering a consistently high-end luxury service standard across a multi-lodge portfolio. The successful candidate will be highly detail-oriented and process-driven, with the confidence to manage people, systems, and commercial performance while working closely with Sales, Marketing, and lodge-based teams to ensure seamless operational delivery. This role requires a professional who brings structure, composure, and discretion to a fast-paced luxury environment, and who is passionate about Africa and exceptional travel experiences. Key Responsibilities · Lead and manage the central reservations team, setting clear standards and KPIs · Ensure flawless handling of all reservations, amendments, cancellations, and special requests · Take ownership of reservations systems, processes, SOPs, and data integrity · Act as the in-house ResRequest expert, including system and product training · Manage rates, availability, contracts, and promotions with absolute accuracy · Support revenue optimisation, forecasting, and reporting · Serve as the primary reservations contact for trade partners and internal stakeholders · Ensure all reservation interactions reflect a premium luxury brand standard Key Requirements · 8–10 years’ experience in luxury lodge, safari, or high-end hospitality reservations · Proven experience in a senior or managerial reservations role · Strong, hands-on ResRequest experience (essential) · Demonstrated ability to deliver system and product training · Advanced proficiency in Microsoft 365, particularly Excel and reporting · Strong leadership, mentoring, and team management skills · Exceptional attention to detail with a structured, process-driven mindset · Solid commercial understanding of rates, yield, and contracts · Excellent written and verbal communication skills · Prior experience or strong knowledge of Zambia as a destination is advantageous – Market related PLEASE NOTE – Although we appreciate all applications, we will only reply to those candidates who meet our clients specific requirements. Thank you for your understanding

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About Catering / hospitality Jobs in ZA

The catering and hospitality industry in South Africa is a thriving sector that provides opportunities for individuals to pursue fulfilling careers. Typically, the job market trends in this field are characterized by strong demand for skilled professionals, particularly in urban areas where tourism and event hosting are increasingly popular.

When it comes to salaries, a general salary range for catering and hospitality positions in South Africa can vary widely depending on factors such as experience, company size, industry sector, and level of responsibility. Broadly speaking, common entry-level positions in this field typically earn salaries ranging from R30 000 to R50 000 per annum, while senior roles can command salaries upwards of R80 000 to R120 000 or more, depending on the specific requirements of the role.

Common skills required for success in the catering and hospitality industry include excellent communication and interpersonal skills, attention to detail, ability to work well under pressure, physical stamina, and basic knowledge of food safety and handling. Additionally, experience with customer service, event planning, and inventory management is often beneficial. While some employers may place a greater emphasis on specific technical skills or certifications, these general skills provide a solid foundation for career progression in this field.

The catering and hospitality industry encompasses a wide range of sectors, including fine dining restaurants, casual eateries, hotels, conference centers, and event management companies. Financial services sector, technology industry, and manufacturing sector are among the common industries that employ professionals in this field. While specific job roles may vary, understanding the broader industry landscape can help individuals make informed career choices.

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Career development opportunities in catering and hospitality abound, with many employers investing in training and development programs to support staff growth and advancement. Typically, career progression involves taking on additional responsibilities, such as shift management or team leadership roles, or pursuing specialized certifications or further education. With dedication and hard work, individuals can build a fulfilling career in this dynamic and rewarding industry.

This information provides general career guidance. Actual salaries and requirements vary by employer.

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