Bookings & Reservation Officer REF NO: C2/25/34 at Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism

REQUIREMENTS :

• An NQF 6 qualification in Tourism Management / Hospitality Management / Business Management or equivalent as recognized by SAQA.
• Two (2) to three (3) years’ working experience in the Bookings and Reservation field or Front Office role in a lodge, resort or eco-tourism setting.
• Valid driver’s license (with exception of persons with disability). No criminal record.

DUTIES :

• Manage and process all booking inquiries through telephone, email and online platforms. Provide detailed information about the resort’s accommodation, wildlife activities (e.g. game drives, hiking trails, etc.), conservation projects, dining options and community-based experiences. Accurately update and manage the reservation system, including guest preferences and special requests.
• Liaise with resort staff and operations teams to ensure availability of activities and accommodation. Send booking confirmations, invoices, payment requests and pre-arrival communication to guests and resort officials.
• Coordinate group and package bookings, including tailored itineraries and activity packages. Monitor occupancy levels and suggest strategies to optimise lodging capacity. Handle cancellations, changes and no-shows according to the Reservations policy and ensure proper guest communication.
• Assist in managing partnerships with booking agents, tourism boards and online travel platforms. Handle clients’ queries, complaints and compliments. Filing and safekeeping of documents. Liaise with IT unit for Online Reservations and Booking System upgrades. Prepare daily, weekly and monthly booking reports for management review.
• Verify and compile database of revenue activities, including guest profiles, booking statistics and revenue reports. Review reservation policies and procedures periodically, identify means of improving productivity and efficiency. Administer complementary bookings. Review annual tariffs according to different categories.
• Loading of tariffs in the reservation system. Develop and review terms and conditions for reservations. Identify opportunities to promote additional services or packages to enhance customer experience. Provide input into promotional campaigns and seasonal offers based on booking trends. Implement promotions and specials.