Sales Manager

The Sales Manager will be responsible for driving leisure sales and business development for a 5-star luxury game lodge located in Waterberg. Working remotely, the Sales Manager will focus on increasing bookings by leveraging relationships with travel agents, tour operators, and direct clients in the luxury leisure market. This role will play a key part in expanding the lodges visibility, building partnerships, and ensuring sustained revenue growth, while working closely with the lodge management team to maintain luxury standards. Key Responsibilities: Leisure Sales & Strategy: Develop and implement a comprehensive leisure sales strategy tailored to high-end domestic and international travelers. Target and secure individual leisure bookings, family groups, and small group leisure travel, while promoting the lodge's unique experiences. Actively pursue new sales opportunities by identifying and reaching out to potential clients and markets, including high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), luxury travel planners, and exclusive tour operators. Business Development: Build and nurture strong relationships with leisure travel agents, tour operators, and travel consortiums specializing in luxury and safari travel. Foster partnerships with DMCs (Destination Management Companies) and other relevant stakeholders to maximize visibility in key markets. Attend virtual travel and tourism trade shows, as well as occasional in-person networking events and conferences to promote the lodge and generate leads. Client Relationship Management: Provide a personalized, high-touch service to leisure clients, ensuring their needs are met from the initial inquiry through to the post-visit follow-up. Maintain long-term relationships with repeat clients and travel agents, ensuring client satisfaction and repeat business. Act as the main point of contact for all leisure sales inquiries, offering tailored proposals and customized packages based on guest preferences. Revenue Growth & Sales Targets: Set and achieve monthly, quarterly, and annual leisure sales targets. Monitor sales performance, analyze market trends, and adjust strategies to optimize bookings and increase revenue. Report regularly to management on sales figures, market feedback, and competitive insights. Marketing & Collaboration: Work closely with the marketing team to create and launch targeted leisure campaigns that showcase the lodges offerings and luxury experiences. Collaborate on content creation, digital marketing strategies, and promotions to attract leisure guests. Contribute to social media campaigns by sharing insights into client preferences and market trends. Guest Experience Enhancement: Liaise with the lodge operations team to ensure seamless coordination of guest bookings and experiences, providing feedback from guests to enhance offerings. Stay informed about new developments at the lodge and communicate these to potential clients to encourage bookings. Strong background in leisure sales within the luxury travel, hospitality, or safari industry. Proven track record of meeting or exceeding sales targets in a remote or independent role. Extensive network of contacts within the luxury travel and leisure market, including tour operators, travel agents, and HNWIs. Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships remotely. Proficient in CRM systems, sales tracking, and digital tools used for remote communication and sales management. Ability to work independently while staying aligned with lodge management and overall business goals. Knowledge of the Waterberg region, safari experiences, and the luxury travel market. Preferred Qualities: A passion for the safari and wildlife industry, with an understanding of the unique selling points of 5-star game lodges. Self-motivated, results-driven, and able to work effectively in a remote environment. Prior experience in remote or virtual sales positions, with a track record of success. Qualifications: Bachelors degree in Hospitality, Tourism, Business, or related fields. Minimum of 5 years of leisure sales experience, with a strong emphasis on luxury travel and hospitality. Fluent in English (additional languages, especially those targeting international clientele, are a plus).

Location: Johannesburg, ZA

Posted Date: 10/7/2024