Groups Operations Consultant

About the position

Our Client is looking for a Groups Operations Consultant to join their team
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 4–5 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.

Desired Skills:

• Groups Operations Consultant
• Groups Operations Specialist
• Group Travel Consultant