Senior Cruise Operations Consultant

Our client is seeking an experienced Senior Cruise
Operations Consultant to join their Cruise Division in Paarden Eiland, Cape
Town. This is a hands-on operations role focused on coordinating and managing
the on-the-ground logistics for international cruise ships visiting South
Africa, Mozambique and Angola.

Please note: This is not a cruise reservations or cruise
sales role. The successful candidate will be responsible for operational
delivery, supplier coordination, logistics management and service execution
during the cruise season.

• Manage the operational delivery of shore excursions,
  overland programmes, hotel stays, turnaround services, and pre/post cruise
  arrangements.
  
• Re-quote services and ensure operational feasibility of all
  programmes.
  
• Source, negotiate, and manage supplier rates and
  relationships.
  
• Ensure all bookings, reservations, and services are
  confirmed and operationally ready.
  
• Prepare movement schedules, welcome letters, guide packs,
  and operational documentation.
  
• Liaise with cruise agents, onboard teams, guides, port
  managers, suppliers, and operational partners.
  
• Coordinate and support port operations during vessel calls.
  
• Manage waitlists, confirmations, amendments, and service
  changes.
  
• Process supplier invoices and assist with final client
  invoicing.
  
• Maintain service excellence, accuracy, and strict turnaround
  times.
  
• Assist with operational problem-solving and emergency
  support when required.
  

Requirements

• Minimum 5 years' experience within an inbound tour operating
  or travel operations environment at senior consultant level.
  
• Strong understanding of travel operations, logistics, and
  supplier management.
  
• Excellent knowledge of Southern African travel products and
  destinations.
  
• Experience with costing, quoting, and managing operational
  budgets.
  
• Advanced Excel skills.
  
• Strong administration and coordination abilities.
  
• Excellent verbal and written English communication skills.
  
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively
  within a team.
  
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and perform
  under pressure.
  

Key Competencies:

• Exceptional attention to detail
  
• Strong organisational and planning skills
  
• Supplier negotiation experience
  
• Relationship-building skills
  
• Customer service excellence
  
• Problem-solving ability
  
• Time management and deadline-driven approach
  
• Stress tolerance and adaptability
  
• Strong commercial awareness and operational knowledge
  

Ideal Candidate:

• We are looking for a hands-on operations professional who
  thrives in a busy environment, enjoys managing complex logistics, and has a
  passion for delivering exceptional travel experiences.
  
• Candidates with cruise operations, inbound tourism,
  destination management, tour operating, or hospitality coordination experience
  will be highly regarded.
  

Benefits