Senior Destination Expert

Our client is a Destination Management Company who has grown to become one of the top DMC’s operating in Southern Africa, with a reputation for professionalism, an eye for detail and a passion for the destinations it manages. They specialise in Meetings and Incentives, Individual Travel and Leisure Group. Their Incentive experience allows them to treat each project with the same attention to detail and immaculate management from start to finish. With creativity and competence, they design a unique itinerary for each client.

Role Overview

Are you passionate about travel and creating unforgettable experiences? For our client’s Head Office in Cape Town, they are looking for an experienced Senior Destination Expert to join their team and specialize in designing and selling tailor-made trips across Southern Africa. If you're driven by delivering top-tier customer service, can craft detailed and bespoke travel itineraries, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and have a proven record in the Tourism Industry, we want to hear from you!

As a Senior Destination Expert, you will report directly to the FIT Team Leader.

Job Type: Cape Town

Workplace:Hybrid

Requirements

• Diploma or degree in Tourism, Hotel Management or Events Management.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in Sales within the Tourism industry.
• In-depth knowledge of Southern African tourism destinations; Eastern Africa an advantage.
• Proven experience in designing and selling travel programs within Southern Africa.
• Proven track record of achieving and exceeding Sales Targets.
• Comprehensive knowledge of Tourplan and WETU systems.
• Must have experience with; and a complete understanding of the German Market and Culture.
• German Speaking is an advantage (read, write and converse).
• A customer-focused approach with the ability to handle pressure and tight deadlines.
• Ability to work extended hours when necessary to meet the demands and high pressure of the Travel Industry.
• 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.
• Strong commitment to staying informed on industry trends, market conditions, and competitor activities.
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office and proven track record in use thereof.
• If not based in Cape Town, the candidate must be willing to travel to the Head Office at least twice a year, with a minimum stay of one week per visit (at the company’s expense).

Responsibilities

• Within our client’s destination portfolio, design, cost out and sell customized, professional, and competitive leisure travel itineraries in Southern Africa for FIT clients, tailored to each client’s budget, requirements, and preferences.
• Communicate effectively via email, phone, and online meetings with clients, answering questions regarding the program offered, handling special requests and/or concerns promptly.
• Manage the end-to-end process, including client consultations, itinerary design, booking, accounting, and execution, in line with company policies and procedures.
• On confirmation, manage all bookings and execute travel programs with the support of a dedicated Travel Assistant to ensure seamless client experiences.
• Ensure accurate invoicing with suppliers while managing relationships throughout the itinerary planning and execution stages.
• Efficiently manage your workload, prioritizing key clients and urgent requests to meet proposal response times.
• Collaborate with and provide support to colleagues where necessary.
• Attend Team Meetings and provide Daily Reports to Team Leader/s and Director/s.
• Maintain a clear, concise, and effective communication style with clients, Management, and the team.
• Take immediate action on any client issues or complaints and keep the Team Leader informed in a structured and timely manner.
• Attend industry events, trade shows, and networking opportunities to promote our client’s tours.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with performance-based incentives.
• Opportunities for Career Growth and Development.
• Travel perks and discounts.
• A dynamic and supportive work environment.

Place of work