SUMMARY:
Senior Operations Executive - Foreshore Cape Town
POSITION INFO:
Senior Operations Executive
Location: Foreshore, Cape Town
An established international travel organisation is looking for a highly experienced Senior Operations Executive to join their growing Cape Town team. This is an excellent opportunity for a senior-level travel professional with a strong operational background, exceptional attention to detail, and a passion for delivering seamless group travel experiences in a high-performance environment.
The role will suit someone with a proven track record in managing complex, high-end group bookings, including school and elite sports travel. You''ll manage full operational delivery from quoting through to reconciliation, and play a hands-on role in client service, supplier management, and strategic execution. The position covers both inbound and outbound travel for sporting groups, incentive travellers, and international school tours.
The team is globally based, with a flexible hybrid working model. Applicants based in Cape Town must be open to a combination of remote and office-based work. Applications from overseas nationals are welcome.
Key Responsibilities
Client & Tour Management
* Build and manage strong client relationships while delivering a high level of service
* Oversee the full client lifecycle: proposals, costings, planning, booking, and delivery
* Source and coordinate flights, accommodation, transfers, activities, and special services
* Maintain accuracy in bookings and ensure client expectations are consistently met
* Handle on-site coordination or attend familiarisation trips as required, including weekends or public holidays
* Manage tour logistics, site visits, and represent the company on location when necessary
Supplier Engagement
* Develop and negotiate with preferred suppliers to secure best rates and reliable services
* Maintain strong relationships with current partners while sourcing new suppliers locally and internationally
* Manage supplier timelines, release periods, and payment terms effectively
* Monitor supplier service levels and resolve issues promptly and professionally
Financial Oversight
* Prepare accurate and detailed costings and reconciliations for all group bookings
* Manage invoices, payments, credit card reconciliations, and supplier financials
* Ensure compliance with company financial procedures and targets
* Monitor profitability and ensure minimum margin thresholds are consistently achieved
Operations and Administration
* Maintain all project documentation in accordance with company standards and deadlines
* File and store documents using SharePoint and other internal systems
* Ensure internal systems reflect accurate, real-time booking data
* Collaborate on operational tools and participate in systems testing and process improvement
* Support reporting requirements for senior leadership
* Contribute to collateral such as brochures, proposals, and internal documents when needed
Team Contribution
* Mentor junior team members and support cross-team collaboration
* Communicate effectively with UK and South African colleagues
* Offer flexibility to support the team during peak times or after hours
* Share knowledge, participate in team initiatives, and contribute to a positive team culture
Learning and Development
* Attend familiarisation trips, client visits, exhibitions, and trade shows when required
* Continuously build product knowledge and stay current on industry trends
* Engage in internal training or mentorship as part of your development plan
Job Requirements
* Matric / Grade 12 is essential
* 5+ years’ experience in a similar role within the travel or destination management sector
* Solid understanding of travel logistics, regional geography, and group coordination
* Strong systems capability; experience with Amadeus, Galileo, or Sabre is beneficial
* Familiarity with travel legislation, insurance, and compliance frameworks (e.g., ABTA, ATOL)
* Financial understanding to manage costings, budgets, markups, and profit targets
* Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
* Strong administrative and organisational skills
* Ability to manage multiple bookings across varying timelines and destinations
* Willingness to travel internationally 3–4 times a year for 2–3 week periods
Key Competencies
* High attention to detail and process accuracy
* Strong communication and interpersonal skills
* Commercial mindset with a customer-first attitude
* Ability to work independently while being a collaborative team player
* Confident decision-making and conflict resolution ability
* Strong time management and ability to prioritise under pressure
* Integrity, professionalism, and discretion when handling sensitive information
* Problem-solver with a proactive and solutions-driven mindset
* Passion for delivering exceptional travel experiences
* Willingness to go the extra mile for both clients and the team
Remuneration
This is a senior-level role offering a competitive salary based on experience, with opportunities to work within a dynamic and international team environment.
