Reservations Office Manager at Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)

About the job:

• The CSIR has a vacancy for a Reservations Office Manager in the CSIR Conferencing and Accommodation (C&A) portfolio, the incumbent will be responsible for managing the CSIR ICC Reservations Office with the objective of achieving the annual sales target as well as customer satisfaction for sustainable repeat business through implementation of standards  and monitoring  the use of product mix 
• (To ensure that the Centre’s Reservations Office operates efficiently and effectively to set standards, policies and procedures thereby increasing sales and sustainability). 
• The Reservations Office is the primary communication channel between customer requirements and CSIR ICC operating departments. Ensuring internal and external client satisfaction and optimum use of facilities prior to, during and after events. 
• This position is based in Pretoria.

This position reports to the: Business Development Manager

Key responsibilities:

• Manage and motivate the performance of the CSIR ICC Event Coordinators to perform their best in carrying out their respective duties to ensure excellent customer satisfaction.
• Establish, implement and maintain operating standards, processes and procedures for the Reservations Office function to provide excellent service to both internal and external clients.
• Ensure that all contracts are signed and deposits received prior to any event taking place and by checking of final invoices to minimise risk to the CSIR.
• Ensure that sales targets are met by monitoring sales against targets and implement corrective measures where necessary.
• Maximising CSIR ICC venue occupancy and revenue without compromising on client experience through assisting and advising the Event Coordinators on optimum utilisation and logistics between client requirements and the facilities, products, services and capabilities of the CSIR ICC and available spaces and resources.
• Foster good communication between the Event Coordinators and the CSIR ICC operational departments regarding planning for client requirements, thereby ensuring cross cutting teamwork resulting in the best possible products and services for the Centre’s clients
• Develop and communicate value adding client products/services such as overnight accommodation, Transport (shuttle and bus) and Pre and Post Tours and establish good relationships with suppliers for mutual benefit.
• Monitor and control commission payments to agents.
• Monitor and control the Reservations Office budget and assets to minimise risk to the CSIR.
• Contribute to the annual strategic planning process through reports, information, ideas and budget formulation to ensure that the Centre remains competitive and able to grow.
• Establish and maintain a healthy working environment in support of good employee relations and cross functional teamwork to assist in achieving the Centre’s goals.

Qualifications, skills and experience:

•  A National Diploma in Event Management or Hospitality or Tourism or Business Administration or any other related field with a minimum of five years’ experience in local/international conferencing environment.
• A Degree in any of the above-mentioned Fields will be advantageous
• Certified Meeting Planner (CMP)
• Management experience
• Systematic
• Process driven
• Customer focussed
• Sales ability/insight
• Delegating responsibility
• Accuracy
• Attention to detail
• People oriented
• Good interpersonal skills

What’s in it for you?

The CSIR offers:

• Flexible hybrid work arrangement;
• Learning and development opportunities.
• Competitive and market-related remuneration packages.
• Total guaranteed salary packages which encompass contributions to the pension fund, risk insurance and medical scheme.
• We openly acknowledge and reward our employees' contributions and accomplishments through our esteemed CSIR Excellence Awards.

Closing date: 28 July 2025