Our client a well-established player in the hospitality industry operating a vibrant beachfront resort in Zanzibar is seeking a driven and strategic Reservations Manager to oversee all aspects of its reservations function. This role plays a critical part in driving occupancy optimizing revenue and ensuring a seamless guest booking experience. The successful candidate will possess a strong blend of analytical thinking sales acumen and team leadership with an ability to translate data insights into actionable strategies. Experience in high-volume or event-focused environments will be a distinct advantage.
Responsibilities
- Develop and execute strategic plans to optimize room occupancy and revenue performance across all accommodation types and packages.
- Lead the daily operations of the reservations team ensuring efficient workflows system accuracy and adherence to SOPs.
- Manage room inventory through effective yield and revenue management techniques to boost ADR and RevPAR.
- Monitor industry trends competitor rates and market forecasts to guide pricing and availability decisions.
- Increase direct booking channels (website email phone) using proactive sales tactics and upselling techniques.
- Identify new B2B opportunities including group bookings travel agency partnerships and corporate contracts.
- Collaborate with the sales and marketing teams to develop tailored promotions and compelling packages.
- Represent the hotel in client meetings and presentations where necessary.
- Analyze booking data and trends to inform pricing forecasting and sales strategies.
- Produce detailed reports (daily weekly monthly) covering occupancy revenue booking channels and performance KPIs.
- Leverage data insights to fine-tune marketing and reservation initiatives for better conversion.
- Ensure a professional efficient and personalized reservation process for all guests.
- Handle special requests and complaints with tact ensuring guest satisfaction from the booking stage onward.
- Maintain strong communication with returning guests and travel partners to foster loyalty.
- Recruit onboard and develop reservations staff with a focus on performance and professional growth.
- Conduct regular training appraisals and one-on-one coaching sessions.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Front Office Sales and Operations to ensure seamless guest service.
- Manage and maintain the Property Management System (PMS) preferably Opera and other booking platforms.
- Ensure accurate data entry proper payment processes and compliance with privacy and data regulations.
- Oversee OTA extranet listings and ensure accurate room rates and availability are reflected.
Requirements
- Bachelor s degree in Hospitality Management Business Marketing or a related analytical field.
- 3 7 years of progressive experience in hotel/resort reservations ideally in high-traffic or event-driven environments.
- Strong data interpretation skills with a proven ability to make informed revenue-generating decisions.
- Proven sales skills with measurable success in achieving or exceeding targets.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills with a client-first approach.
- Advanced proficiency in PMS (preferably Opera) channel management tools and OTA platforms.
- Proficiency in Excel and other reporting tools.
- Strong organizational skills and a proactive hands-on approach to problem solving.
- Flexibility to work evenings weekends and holidays as needed.