Senior Reservations Agent (Tourism) at Terra Nova Tours

As a Senior Reservations Agent, you will report directly to the Leisure Groups Team Leader, with responsibilities that include, but are not limited to

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and manage Block-Booking Allotments in collaboration with the GMO.
• Recommend and manage alternative suppliers/products that align with company requirements.
• Maintain Block-Bookings for Series and ADHOC groups and update allotment grids.
• Monitor and manage Block-Booking inventory, ensuring updates for both FIT and ADHOC bookings.
• Ensure adherence to cancellation policies.
• Provide booking statuses upon request for tour block-bookings.
• Inform Groups & Product departments of any supplier changes (e.g., closures, renovations).
• Assist the department with Product-related requests
• Notify Consultants and follow up on supplier deposit payments.
• Cancel services before release dates as per tour availability and update grids.
• Negotiate with suppliers with strict policies before incurring charges.
• Cancel suppliers for unconfirmed tours and update grids.
• Ensure duplicate or unwanted suppliers are cancelled.
• Arrange extra services as required (e.g., restaurant reservations, activities like kayaking).
• Book tour extensions

Quoting Support

• Prepare supplier rate comparisons for the current vs. previous year, including increase ratios.
• Evaluate rate increases and provide a comparative analysis to Management.
• Assist in negotiating supplier rates with the Product department to secure better pricing.
• Input contracted rates into Tour Quoting and Invoice Calculation Templates.

Others

• 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.
• Attend industry events, trade shows, and networking opportunities to promote Terra Nova Tours.

Requirements

• Diploma or degree in Tourism, Hotel Management or Events Management.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in Group Travel or Hotel Reservations.
• In-depth knowledge of South Africa as tourism destination;
• Proven ability to manage complex bookings and 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.
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office and proven track record in use thereof.
• Knowledge of Tourplan is of advantage

Benefits

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