Reservations Manager

Kendrick Recruitment is seeking a highly organised and experienced Reservations Manager for a luxury safari lodge in the Kruger National Park. This role is responsible for overseeing the reservations department maximising occupancy and revenue and ensuring exceptional guest service.

Key Responsibilities:

Reservation Operations

• Manage daily reservation activities including individual and group bookings
  
• Ensure accurate entry of all bookings into the reservation system
  
• Monitor room availability and maintain inventory control
  
• Handle booking amendments cancellations and special requests
  

Revenue & Yield Management

• Maximise room occupancy and revenue through effective rate management
  
• Monitor booking trends occupancy levels and forecast demand
  
• Implement pricing strategies in coordination with management
  

Team Management

• Supervise train and develop reservations staff
  
• Ensure high standards of professionalism and guest communication
  
• Manage staff schedules and departmental workflow
  

Guest & Agent Relations

• Respond to guest and travel agent inquiries via email phone and online channels
  
• Maintain strong relationships with tour operators and travel agents
  
• Communicate special guest requests to relevant departments
  

Reporting & Administration

• Prepare daily weekly and monthly reservation reports
  
• Maintain accurate records of bookings payments and guest information
  
• Collaborate with sales and marketing teams on promotions and packages
  

Coordination with Other Departments

• Liaise with front office housekeeping and operations teams to ensure smooth guest arrivals and departures
  
• Communicate VIP arrivals group bookings and special requirements
  

Requirements:

• Diploma or degree in Hospitality Management or related field preferred
  
• 35 years experience in hotel or lodge reservations
  
• Strong knowledge of reservation systems (PMS) and booking platforms
  
• Excellent communication and customer service skills
  
• Strong organisational and multitasking abilities
  

Key Skills:

• Revenue management awareness
  
• Attention to detail
  
• Team leadership and development
  
• Problem-solving and decision-making
  
• Time management
  

Package & Benefits:

• Negotiable salary based on experience
  
• Opportunity to lead reservations operations within a luxury safari lodge environment
  

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their CV to apply for this role.