Distribution Manager - Cape Town / Johannesburg Based at Lion Roars Hotels & Lodges

As Distribution Manager, you will manage and optimise electronic distribution networks across all Lion Roars properties. You will collaborate with the revenue team and other stakeholders to ensure effective e-distribution management, revenue optimisation, and market competitiveness. (Permanent Position). Knowledge & Skills Required:

• Strong knowledge of electronic distribution channels, online booking systems, and revenue management principles essential.
• Familiarity with channel management tools, online travel agency extranets, tour operators, travel agents, and GDS platforms important.
• Proficiency in using Microsoft Office Suite or other analytical tools to manipulate and analyse data beneficial.
• Knowledge of Protel MPE property management system, rate building, and distribution modules essential.
• Knowledge of NightsBridge, Siteminder, and Atomize advantageous.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Diploma or certification related to e-distribution, revenue management, and marketing advantageous but not essential.

Experience Required:

• 2-3 years of experience working with distribution systems, online travel agencies (OTAs), global distribution systems (GDS), and other electronic distribution channels.
• Previous experience in e-distribution, revenue management, or digital marketing.

Duties include:

Distribution Channel Management:

• Assist in managing and optimising Lion Roars’ presence across various electronic distribution channels, including online travel agencies (OTAs), global distribution systems (GDS), metasearch engines, direct booking channels, tour operators, and travel agents.
• Ensure Lion Roars Hotel's visibility and competitiveness on global platforms, making strategic decisions about inventory allocation and pricing.
• Assist in managing and optimising room inventory and rates across the group.
• Monitor availability, rates, and restrictions on distribution channels to ensure accurate and competitive pricing, room allocations, and inventory control.
• Manage and ensure optimal utilisation of e-distribution platforms and technologies such as channel managers, revenue management systems, and online booking engines.
• Ensure all distribution channels have accurate and up-to-date content, prices, and availability.
• Stay updated on industry trends, new distribution technologies, and changes in distribution channels.
• Explore new ways to leverage emerging platforms and technology to enhance the hotel's e-distribution capabilities.
• Build rates and rate categories in Protel PMS, GDS, OBE, and IDS.

Performance Analysis:

• Analyse the performance of various distribution channels to identify opportunities to increase income and maximise bookings.
• Monitor KPI’s for each property, including occupancy rates, average day rate (ADR), revenue, and conversion rates.
• Assist in developing and implementing successful rate strategies based on market demand, competitor analysis, and revenue management principles for each property.
• Set pricing tiers, discounts, packages, and promotions to maximize income and occupancy.
• Identify opportunities for optimising e-distribution operations through automation, integration, and new technologies.

Communication and Coordination:

• Collaborate with the sales and marketing teams to ensure e-distribution strategies align with overall sales and marketing efforts.
• Coordinate promotional efforts, optimise channel mix, and provide information on market dynamics and e-distribution consequences.
• Work with other departments to optimise workflows and improve efficiency, such as reservations, sales, and revenue management.

Training and Support:

• Develop and implement training programs for the hotel's e-distribution team, including reservations agents, front desk workers, and other key individuals.
• Conduct hands-on training on e-distribution systems and tools used by hotels, including channel managers, revenue management systems, and online booking systems.
• Maintain extensive documentation and a knowledge base for e-distribution procedures, systems, and training materials.
• Ensure relevant information is readily available to the revenue team for reference and decision-making.
• Address any technical issues or difficulties with e-distribution platforms, connectivity, or data synchronisation.