Senior Destination Product Manager at Wilderness

PRIMARY PURPOSE

The key focus area is to drive 3rd party product in order to grow the DMC offering in line with our business strategy.

The role also includes a coordination/development function between the Sales team, Reservation Managers, Operations Reservation Manager’s, Travel Designers and 3rd party suppliers. To contribute to the initiation, growth & development of both FIT, Groups and owned brands.
*This position can be based in either Johannesburg or Cape Town.

Detailed Responsibilities:

• Negotiate and track rates, margins and overrides, terms and conditions with 3rd party products – for Strategic and preferred categories. Available for all Wilderness Travel Shops.
• Clearly define our strategic preferred and other suppliers.
• Build strong relationships with key suppliers by arranging regular meetings and attending online and physical trade shows.
• To update and maintain supplier information in the Wilderness Window.
• To work closely with the RARA (rates loading department) and highlight all contractual changes to supplier rates.
• Investigate, source, review and compile information for some special interest products & new products.
• Assist with the planning of Fam Trips / Presentations / Workshops.
• Compare and analyse rates and products of competitors and communicate to Management.
• Develop AP strategy for allocated region in line with group strategy and report on progress.
• Investigate and resolve queries, complaints and comments from guests, agents and staff members together with the Travel Analyst team.

CANDIDATE PROFILE

Qualification:

• Matric certificate – with math's (minimum standard grade or above). 
• Tertiary certificate in Travel & Tourism/hospitality. 

Experience:                     

• 7-10 years’ experience in the travel & tourism industry with exposure to suppliers in Southern & East Africa preferably in operations or in product development.
• Experience in interaction with agents.
• Extensive product knowledge in Southern & East Africa
• Computer Literate (Microsoft Office, email, Internet).
• Proven English literacy.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Working knowledge of TourPlan, Wilderness Window and WISH or similar booking/operating system.

Personal Abilities:

• Excellent communication skills both written and oral, in English.
• Creative, organized and good communication skills.
• Ability to work under pressure without compromising accuracy.
• Ability to pace oneself and prioritise demands.
• Must have a valid passport.
• Team worker and ability to interface with various departments.
• Consistent approach to quality of output, service and result orientated.