Reservations Manager

Red Ember Recruitment is seeking to appoint an experienced Reservations Manager for our client based in Cape Town. They will be responsible for the Hotels FIT and Group Reservations, ensuring that the standards and policies and procedures laid down by the Company are adhered to in order to achieve the highest occupancy and best average room rate. Applicants would be required to demonstrate proven Supervisory skills in particular planning and organizing skills, attention to detail, guest orientation and people management skills. The ability to sell rooms and use their initiative is key to the success of this position. Ensure thorough knowledge of the Legacy Brand and The Commodore & Portswood Hotel’s product. Overall management of the FIT and Groups Reservations Team including smooth daily running of the department, training, ensuring policies, procedures and standards are adhered to and delivered. Preparation of all reservations and revenue reporting including daily pick-up analysis, strategy adjustments and the annual rooms revenue budget and targets. In conjunction with the General Manager - implement and manages the revenue management processes and distribution strategies of the hotel including within the department, Optimizes and expands distribution partnerships and manage the day-to-day yield operations and reporting. Manage all inventory, control allocations, provisional bookings, overbooking, cancellations and ensure deposits and payments are made. Manage the online booking channels and websites. Evaluate performance of distribution partners and contracted rates. Work closely with all internal departments to communicate and coordinate all reservations and guest requests timeously. Liaises with Sales Department regarding occupancy, rates and reservations analysis. Assist with potential site inspections as well as identify potential room’s revenue opportunities. Ensures that the hotel is competitively positioned within the local marketplace. Ensure that guest satisfaction remains key and that any guest problems or complaints are attended to and relevant senior management informed. Have knowledge of Occupational health & safety in the workplace as it applies. Knowledge of CAPEX procedures. Requirements At least 3 years’ experience in a similar 4/5* position. Banqueting / Events Booking experience. Systems knowledge: MS Office essential and INFOR an advantage. Excellent administration skills. Setting up of group contracts and invoices. Good understanding of Revenue Control & Yield Management. Fluent in English – verbal and written. Strong communication skills. Skilled in problem analysis, problem solving and decision making. Display a high level of emotional intelligence. Customer orientation, professional and presentable. Able to multitask and work under pressure. Time management skills. Ability to work shifts and occasional overtime.