Operations Manager

PRIMARY PURPOSE

Wilderness Safaris is looking for a motivated, organised individual, seeking a challenging and rewarding opportunity in a fast-paced environment, who is willing to travel and spend the majority of their time in the field. The individual will be responsible for the oversight of the entire operation of the Namibian business, ensuring quality and efficiency of all hospitality services, in line with the strategic goals of the business. The individual will need to have the drive to lead, a passion for excellence, and enthusiasm for team development.

Detailed Responsibilities

• The primary purpose of the COO role is to oversee the entire lodge business’ operational processes, and to ensure superb customer experience.
• The COO needs to continuously look at optimising the company’s lodge operating capabilities, employ strategies to maximise customer satisfaction and provide input and initiatives to market the business.
• The COO is responsible for managing supplier, contractor and partner relationships, ensuring the best service and cost structure for the Namibia region.
•  The COO will also assist the MD and Regional Finance Officer in forecasting for the business, and design and implement strategies to safeguard assets and stock in camps.
• The COO needs to work closely with the RFO to ensure that the necessary financial controls are in place   in all lodge operations, and to remain close to the financial position of the business.
• The COO has overall responsibility for the fleet, and all company and lodge operational assets.
• The COO must establish policies that promote company culture and vision, in conjunction with the MD, HR and Hospitality Support Manager.
• Oversee daily operations of the company, and the work of management, for the Hospitality Support Manager, Fleet and Logistics Manager, Curio Manager, and Area Managers.
• Lead employees to encourage maximum performance and dedication.
• Evaluate performance by analysing and interpreting data and metrics.
• Write and submit reports to the MD on all matters of importance.
• Participate in expansion activities related to the business in investments, acquisitions, corporate alliances etc.
• In this position you will team up with EXCO to implement business strategies.
• To ensure success you should have a clear understanding of Wilderness Safaris’ core values and culture.
• Provide operational support and advice/input to the Managing Director of the Namibia region.
• The COO must have oversight of the entire lodge operations of the business, ensuring quality and efficiency of all hospitality services, in line with the strategic goals of the business.
• Ensure lodge operations are running as well as they possibly can, with a smooth and efficient service that meets the expectations and needs of guests, staff and the executive.

• Minimum 8 years’ experience in high-end, luxury safari and hospitality market
• Senior management experience of 5 years or more
• Extensive knowledge of tourism operations
• Sound business and financial acumen
• Strong industrial relations experience
• Computer literate – MS Office, email, Internet
• Demonstrated commitment to integrity, quality and a history of excellent customer service and uncompromising ethical standards
• A team worker who can liaise with numerous stakeholders at various levels
• Experience in guest and food services
• Excellent communication and rapport-building skills
• You will need to be a proactive self-starter and team player
• People development skills
• Driver’s license
• Must have the necessary documentation to live and work in Namibia

• Methodical, organised, disciplined and able to work under pressure
• Excellent problem-solving skills – solutions-focused
• Dynamic, flexible and open to change
• Attention to detail
• Use own initiative
• Good communication skills, both written and oral
• Positive attitude and solutions-driven
• Good time-management skills