Job Description

Planet Africa Tours’ Inbound Division offers destination management services to the Japanese market, operating tours across Southern and East Africa. Our expert team has a wealth of knowledge and the connections to deliver an exceptional experience for any travelers visiting from Japan. A combination of local knowledge and an understanding and appreciation of the requirements of the Japanese traveler has made Planet Africa Tours the largest Southern Africa operator in the Japanese market.

The Senior Reservations Consultant is responsible for proactively designing, operating, and managing bespoke FIT and group bookings, providing a high level of service to customers.

Key Tasks include, but are not limited to:

• Plan, design, and prepare travel itineraries, providing travel advice and recommendations that will improve the guest experience.
• Manage bookings from quote to finalizing, invoicing, and travel documentation.
• Sourcing and securing alternatives if any availability challenges arise.
• Convert quotes into bookings, making every effort to close the sale, and utilizing opportunities to increase margin.
• Conduct availability checks, book all accommodation and services, and reconfirm all bookings.
• Provisionally book services and manage their release dates.
• Compile documentation for tour guides and tour leaders, and documents pertaining to group operations such as rooming list, invoices, etc.
• Quality control of all bookings.
• Resolve account queries within set deadlines.
• Deliver professional, solutions-focused communication to customers.
• Assist with training, mentoring, or guidance to junior team members when required.

Requirements

• EDUCATION: Grade 12 essential. A related tertiary qualification in Travel and Tourism is highly preferable.
• EXPERIENCE: Minimum 5 years’ related experience in inbound reservations (preferably at a senior level); well-versed in designing and operating bespoke itineraries for both group and individual travelers; relevant experience working with the Japanese market will be highly beneficial.
• KNOWLEDGE: Strong knowledge of travel products, destinations, and logistics in South and Southern Africa.
• SKILLS: Strong computer and systems Skills (UDMS, Microsoft Office/Word/Excel/Outlook/SharePoint; excellent written and verbal communication skills; excellent interpersonal skills; high level of organizational ability and time management; strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills; strong administrative and organizational skills.
• ATTRIBUTES: Professional, calm, and solutions-driven approach; ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities; demonstrates accountability and ownership of outcomes; adaptable and enjoys working in a changing environment.