Our client is one of the leading destination specialists for Southern Africa. They create tailor-made itineraries for FIT, Group and MICE Travellers.

Job Purpose
Successfully support the management of a team of Destination Specialists. Lead the team to operationalise agent requests seamlessly and continuously improve service standards. Successfully quote and operationalize profitable tour products for existing as well as new clients.

Key Responsibilities
Sales

Effectively cost products
Understand the market and margin control
Build up and maintain agent / supplier relationships
Source new products if and when required
Develop in cooperation with General Manager business and product strategy to secure additional business from agents
Work closely with the team to achieve goals

Operations

Quote and design successful, creative itineraries and proposals
Capture and confirm bookings in Tourplan
Negotiate with suppliers for better rates, cancellation policies, FOC’s, value adds etc.
Find new suppliers that offer a good/better service and better rates
Continuously and proactively monitor client feedback and improve operational processes
Follow up on own quotes as well as assist in monitoring the team’s quote overview
Successfully run groups / series bookings
Handling the 24hour emergency phone
Prepare guide documentation and brief guide before travel date
Work closely with tour guides whilst on tour
Utilise expertise to improve in conjunction with GM the team’s operational excellence
Pass on Tourplan knowledge to the team via training/coaching sessions

Product

Ensure the team is up to date with regards to new product, product development, news and changes relevant to the groups team
Support groups and procurement in a seamless process from negotiating to loading rates in Tourplan

Financial

Reconcile supplier invoices for processing
Assist debtors’ clerk with invoicing / collection queries
Reconcile tour guide expense sheets on completion of tours and check guide salary invoices

Additional responsibilities

Participate in supplier training and workshops
Reduce the transaction turnaround time
Demonstrate good communication skills and customer care
Stay current on events and changes of suppliers and product
Travel on educationals and familiarizations trips, including hosting agents at times

Sundry Areas
It is expected of all employees to perform not only the tasks mentioned in the job description, but also directly allocated or extraordinary tasks that could arise.

Travel Sales Team Lead - Inbound Leisure Tourism (Namibia)