Head of Reservations

SUMMARY:
A luxury private game reserve in Graaff-Reinet, Eastern Cape, is seeking an experienced and commercially driven HEAD OF RESERVATIONS to lead their reservations function.

POSITION INFO:
This is a senior leadership role for a polished, detail-oriented reservations professional who combines strong operational expertise with solid sales ability and team management skills. The successful candidate will take full ownership of the reservations function, drive occupancy and revenue, and ensure a seamless and professional guest journey from first enquiry through to arrival. Core Criteria: Proven experience in a senior reservations management role within a luxury lodge, hotel, or hospitality establishment Strong knowledge of reservations systems and booking platforms Solid commercial awareness with the ability to drive sales conversion and revenue targets Excellent written and verbal communication skills with a warm, professional manner Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to develop and motivate a reservations team High attention to detail and accuracy in processing bookings, rates, and guest correspondence Experience with travel agents, DMCs, and direct guest relationships Ability to compile and present occupancy reports, sales performance data, and forecasts Computer literate with solid Microsoft Office skills Flexible, reliable, and self-motivated with the ability to work independently Comfortable living and working in a remote environment Core Responsibilities: Lead, manage, and develop the reservations team to maintain high performance and service standards Oversee all incoming reservations enquiries across all channels, including direct, agent, and online platforms Process bookings accurately and timeously, issuing confirmations, pro formas, and related documentation Manage rates, availability, and channel management to maximise occupancy and revenue Build and maintain strong relationships with travel agents, DMCs, tour operators, and direct guests Manage provisional bookings, follow-ups, amendments, and cancellations within approved policies Coordinate with lodge operations teams to ensure accurate and complete guest handovers Compile and present regular occupancy, revenue, and sales performance reports for management Monitor market trends, competitor pricing, and booking patterns to support revenue strategy Ensure all guest correspondence is professional, accurate, and aligned with brand standards Remuneration & Benefits: Salary: R30,000 - R35,000 per month Live-out position (live-in available on request)