Sales Manager: Leisure Travel

SUMMARY:
Leading Inbound DMC that aims to deliver authentic and immersive travel experiences throughout Southern and Eastern Africa including tailor-made Individual Travel, Group Travel, Scheduled Tours and Meetings & Incentives based in Cape Town (Hybrid Working Offered) is looking for a Sales Manager: Leisure Travel / Senior FIT Consultant.
 
Experience in the German market is essential.
 
As the Sales Manager: Leisure Travel / Senior FIT Consultant you will report directly to the FIT Operations Manager.

POSITION INFO:
Duties:

Lead and manage a team of Destination Experts and Sales Consultants, ensuring targets are met and performance is optimized.
Oversee the design and execution of high-quality, tailor-made travel itineraries for FIT clients across Southern and Eastern Africa.
Implement and maintain Smart Quoting systems and ensure SLA’s are adhered to at all times.
Manage proposal response times and ensure deadlines are consistently met.
Manage the day-to-day operations, including workflow distribution and prioritization.
Work closely with Product Division and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers, ensuring competitive proposals and service excellence.
Work closely with Travel Assistants and Travel Success Administrators to ensure a smooth booking process
Liaise with Travel Concierge and Quality Contral Manager to identify challenges and growth opportunities
Ensure all bookings, quotes, and client communications adhere to company standards and procedures.
Provide ongoing support, mentorship, and training to team members.
Provide support with Tourplan and WETU systems.
Facilitate Stand-up meetings and attend weekly meetings with FIT Operations Manager.
Report weekly on Sales performance, including inquiries and confirmed sales.
Report daily to Senior Management on team performance and progress and identify training needs.
Collaborate with Management to set and achieve team targets, ensuring constant alignment with company goals.
Take immediate action on any client issues, complaints, or operational challenges and keep the FIT Operations Manager informed in a structured and timely manner.
Assist in Recruitment, Onboarding, and Training of new team members as required.
Cost out and sell customized, professional, and competitive leisure travel itineraries in Southern and Eastern Africa for FIT clients, tailored to each client’s budget, requirements, and preferences.
Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and client feedback to drive continuous improvement and innovation.
Attend industry events, Trade Shows, and networking opportunities to promote Terra the company.


Requirements:

Diploma or degree in Tourism, Hotel Management or Events Management.
Minimum of 10 years of experience in Inbound Tourism within the Tourism industry, particularly within Southern and Eastern Africa.
Complete understanding of the German Market and Culture.
Strong Leadership Skills with the ability to motivate and guide a driven team.
Proven track record of achieving and exceeding Sales Targets.
In-depth knowledge of Southern and Eastern African tourism destinations.
Sales-driven with a passion for delivering exceptional customer service.
In-depth knowledge of Tourplan and WETU systems.
German Speaking an advantage (read, write and converse).
A customer-focused approach with the ability to handle pressure and tight deadlines.
A proactive, problem-solving attitude and ability to work extended hours when necessary to meet the demands and high pressure of the Travel Industry.
Excellent communication and organizational skills, with an ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
Excellent interpersonal skills, with an ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients, suppliers, team members and colleagues.
Strong commitment to staying informed on industry trends, market conditions, and competitor activities.
Comfortable with technology and systems; proficient in Microsoft Office and proven track record in use thereof.
Willingness to travel for familiarization trips and meetings as required.