Groups Product Manager

SUMMARY:
Leading Inbound DMC that aims to deliver authentic and immersive travel experiences throughout Southern and Eastern Africa including tailor-made Individual Travel, Group Travel, Scheduled Tours and Meetings & Incentives based in Cape Town (Hybrid Working Offered) is looking for a Groups Product Manager.
 
You will report directly to the Head of Product and Head of Sales & Marketing.

POSITION INFO:
Duties:

Supplier Management:

Build and nurture strong supplier relationships.
Manage the Group Supplier database and ensure supplier compliance.
Identify potential group suppliers throughout Southern Africa.
Request Group/Series rates, terms, and information, and conduct year-on-year comparisons.
Negotiate favourable rate agreements.
Handle supplier queries, guest feedback, and refund requests.
Oversee the loading timelines of Group Rates onto various quoting and booking platforms.
Keep the Groups Division updated with supplier information.
Reporting on supplier information.

Agent Relationship:

Act as the key liaison for group agents regarding supplier selection, changes, and allocation of services after coordination with the Head of Sales & Marketing.
Ensure effective communication and alignment with agents to support seamless group planning.
Oversee all booking grids and supplier allotments, ensuring second-choice alternatives are in place for any gaps or availability issues.

Cross-Departmental:

Conduct regular meetings with the Reservations Department to monitor availability, flag potential issues, and align operational logistics.
Collaborate closely with Quality Control to ensure feedback loops are closed and any client complaints or service concerns are addressed effectively and promptly, and refunds are received.
Work collaboratively with other departments (Operations, Sales, etc.) to align on group-specific product delivery and service quality expectations.

Training and Development:

Set up supplier training sessions, product presentations, and site inspections for the Groups Division.
Organise educational trips and workshops for the Groups Sales Team.
Assist with the planning of Agent Familiarization trips.

Communication and Content Creation:

Assist with content for internal and external newsletters.

General:

Ensure adherence to company policies and procedures.
Oversee daily operations and ensure team productivity.
Implement quality control measures and continuous improvement initiatives.
Collaborate with management to align departmental goals with company objectives.
Conduct performance evaluations and implement improvement plans.
Strategic Planning.
Oversee daily operations and ensure team productivity.
Reports on team performance.

Requirements:

Grade 12
Relevant qualification in Travel, Tourism, Hospitality, or Business Administration (preferred).
Minimum of 5 years’ experience in Product or Groups sales within the Travel Industry
In-depth knowledge of Southern African tourism destinations.
A service-focused approach with the ability to handle pressure and tight deadlines.
A proactive, problem-solving attitude and ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
Strong communication and organizational skills, with an ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with both clients and suppliers.
Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office and proven track record in use thereof.
High level of professionalism and reliability.
Knowledge of local and regional tourism offerings and suppliers is a bonus.
Willingness to occasionally assist with ad hoc projects or additional tasks as directed by Management.