Reservations Manager - Iconic Conservation Safari Brand - Johannesburg (Hybrid) | Sl

Reservations Manager - Iconic Conservation Safari Brand - Johannesburg (Hybrid) Kendrick Recruitment is searching for a highly organised, service-driven Reservations Manager for one of South Africa's most respected and purpose-led luxury safari and conservation brands. This is a pivotal leadership role overseeing the full reservations function across the reserve's camps - managing the guest journey from initial enquiry through to arrival, nurturing key trade relationships and supporting revenue performance. The role is based in Johannesburg with a hybrid working arrangement and quarterly on-site visits to the reserve. Please note: Candidates must already be based in Johannesburg. This is a live-out, hybrid position. On-site visits to the reserve are required once per quarter. Minimum Requirements: Minimum 3 to 5 years' senior reservations experience within luxury hospitality or the safari industry - essential Proven team leadership and mentorship experience In-depth understanding of Southern African travel, safari logistics and luxury guest expectations Proficient in reservations systems - ResRequest, Panstrat, NightsBridge or similar Strong written and verbal English communication skills Additional languages (French, German or other) advantageous Excellent organisational skills and meticulous attention to detail Solid understanding of occupancy trends, booking pace and revenue management Unwavering integrity and professionalism Passion for luxury travel, wildlife and conservation Stable work history with contactable references Key Responsibilities: ? Reservations & Guest Journey Manage and supervise daily reservation operations across all camps on the reserve Ensure accurate, efficient and personalised handling of all bookings from enquiry through to pre-arrival coordination Maintain deep knowledge of camp offerings, guest experiences and conservation narratives to tailor all guest communication Liaise with field-based reserve teams to ensure full readiness for guest arrivals and special requests ? Trade Relations & Sales Support Nurture and grow relationships with key travel trade partners including agents, DMCs and tour operators Provide real-time support, training and insights to trade partners Ensure consistent communication on availability, promotions and value-added offerings ? Revenue & Performance Monitor occupancy trends, booking pace and yield to support revenue optimisation Generate reports and insights for forecasting, budget planning and performance reviews Coordinate with finance and hospitality teams for smooth pre-arrival operational flow Systems & Processes Oversee accurate data entry, payment tracking and booking integrity across all reservation systems Ensure SOPs are followed, continuously reviewed and improved to uphold the reserve's standards ? Team Leadership Lead; support and develop the reservations team Provide ongoing training, mentorship and performance feedback Foster a culture of excellence, empathy and shared conservation values Package: Gross Salary: R28,000 - R35,000 per month (negotiable) Live-out position - Johannesburg based Option for hybrid working arrangement Quarterly on-site visits to the reserve Competitive benefits package A purpose-led environment focused on conservation, innovation and meaningful impact Should you feel you are the right fit for this role, please apply with your updated CV, a motivation letter, contactable references and a recent head and shoulders photo ASAP! ? Please Note: If you do not receive feedback within 7 working days, kindly consider your application unsuccessful.