Chief Operating Officer - Travel & Tourism

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) will lead, develop, implement, and execute long-term strategies aimed at increasing turnover and profitability for our client. Responsibilities Effectively manage and lead the team of currently 100 staff. Implement and control business strategies to exceed customer expectations and achieve sales targets. Drive profitability while ensuring effective management of both local and international client and supplier relationships. Achieve annual budgeted targets for turnover, margins, and overall profitability. Foster year-on-year growth at a predetermined percentage, and actively pursue dis-intermediating strategies to ensure business sustainability. Regularly review sales focus to optimize operational performance. Connect and synergise SOA SA to the support business units such as PPM, Finance, HR and IT. STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT Develop financial, operational, and sales strategies to maintain and grow market leadership in the inbound leisure sector. Ensure effective implementation of strategic initiatives. Represent SOA SA at Divisional Board meetings. Monitor the competitive landscape for market expansion opportunities and industry developments and adjust the business model accordingly. Engage in industry events and associations to enhance leadership skills and bolster SOAs reputation. Participate in strategic planning to maximize revenue and drive business improvement and efficiency. Align sales and operations activities with core business strategies, executing key initiatives and providing specialized support. Respond promptly to evolving demands and priority changes within the division. Identify opportunities for market penetration and strengthen existing customer relationships. Successfully digitise the commodity trading space by entrepreneurial use of technology such as the VMP and AI. CLIENT RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT Establish and maintain strong relationships with key clients. Ensure that client expectations are consistently met and that the highest service standards are maintained. Provide clients with competitive pricing and product offerings. Continuously explore creative ideas and review product offerings for clients. Facilitate effective communication between clients and the business. SUPPLIER RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT Commit to building and maintaining relationships with preferred partners. Develop an understanding of supplier products and services. Engage in personal development related to destinations and product knowledge. OPERATIONAL MANAGEMENT Develop and align operational strategies based on performance metrics and business needs. Ensure management efficiency and operational effectiveness. Qualifications and Expertise Minimum 10 years experience in a senior management role in inbound tourism Understanding of customers needs and products in the inbound tourism industry In-depth knowledge of the hospitality and inbound tourism industry Strong Communication skills Strong Financial and Business Acumen Experience in developing efficient strategies and business plans Experience in project development and management Financial analysis knowledge including; budgeting skills, financial management, and accounting principles to successfully run the business Competency A mature approach when dealing with people Ability to handle controversial or emotional issues objectively and analytically Capacity for dealing with employees at all levels Confidentiality, tact and discretion when dealing with people Excellent planning, Organisational, analytical and decision-making skills Good conflict resolution skills Good oral and written communication skills Integrity and Honesty Good interpersonal skills Project Management skills Good problem solving skills Excellent Organisational skills Strong Negotiation skills Research, Organisational and presentation skills Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Software, including Word, Excel and PowerPoint Strong working knowledge of Tourplan Salary The salary for this position is competitive and dependent on relevant experience.

Location: Johannesburg, ZA

Posted Date: 5/16/2025