Experience in, and knowledge of East African safari sales - at least 5 years experience
Experience in a retail sales role for an African inbound operator - at least 10 years experience
Skilled in designing detailed and individualized quotes for itinerary requests
Excellent sales and customer service skills (written & telephone), a service delivery mindset and a strong customer service focus
Target orientated, and experience of delivering results in a performance oriented and fast paced sales environment
Strong administration and organizational skills with great attention to detail with desire for continuous improvement
Excellent time management skills with the ability to multi-task and prioritize tasks
Proactive mindset and can-do attitude
Experience in handling demanding situations (e.g. complaints, last minute requests, changes whilst travelling)
Experience in and willingness to handle issues outside of office hours when required
Self-starter and the ability to work independently as well as within a broader team setup
Energetic and eager to learn
SKILLS & EXPERIENCE ADVANTAGE
Strong sales & customer service skills (written & telephone)
Knowledge of Business Sales Systems e.g. HubSpot
RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES
Handling of safari requests on behalf of the company received from repeat or recommended guests via the companys website and social media channels, corporate and charitable partners
Inspire potential clients with knowledge of East African properties and destinations by proactively engaging with clients, advising on itinerary routing, logistics and suitability of options
Compile attractive tailor-made itineraries to match client expectations and budgets
Ensuring turnaround time targets are met/exceeded and attention to detail is paid to the itinerary at quote, confirmation and pre-travel stages
Following sales procedures as set out in the operating manuals
Follow up with clients after a safari for any feedback and encourage referrals
Working alongside the Sales Ops consultant throughout the sales and confirmation process
Collaborative approach with Guest Services team to provide best in class guest service
Strive to meet and exceed personal and team KPIs to meet company growth goals, including sharing best practise and ideas with the team on a proactive basis
Report any errors or issues to your line manager immediately on discovery
Provide proactive support to colleagues in peak or leave times
Contribute ideas, testing and feedback to aid the continual improvement of systems including reservations system, guest itineraries and others as required
Attending all training that is offered and proactively growing your knowledge of the company by researching our products (as well as that of 3rd party suppliers) and the countries in which we operate, to continuously strengthen your knowledge of these destinations
Taking a proactive and adaptable approach to learning in terms of sales skills, systems, processes and product knowledge
REQUIRED WORK PRACTICES
Across all interactions, promote the image of the sales team as a best in class externally with our clients and internally with our key stakeholders
As a key point of contact and the face of the company, upholding and contributing to the reputation of the company as a leading safari operator
The company values are values that play a significant role in how we define ourselves and set ourselves apart. We place high value on living these values in every day work practices. These values are genuine, honesty, quality, commitment, and care.
When staff events happen within working hours, it will be compulsory to attend
CONDITIONS AND HOURS OF WORK
You will be required to work in the Cape Town office from Monday - Friday. You are required to work 9 hours per day, including an hour lunch break. The working hours are 08h00 to 17h00 with some flexibility
You will be required to be available afterhours and on weekends (i.e. on standby occasionally) as and when needed. This includes checking online booking platforms for possible last-minute arrivals / bookings (on a rotational basis within the team)
You may be required to work alternative South African public holidays, for which you may be compensated with time off in lieu
Overtime may be required during peak periods, for which you may be compensated with time off in lieu
We operate a 24/7 emergency phone that rotates between consultants for which you take full responsibility according to a roster for 1 week at a time. Overtime may be required during peak periods
You may be required to travel for work from time to time (must have a valid passport)
You will be required to be fully vaccinated against Yellow Fever and COIVD-19 as a condition to travel (irrespective of the destinations requirements)