About Company
Sarova Taita Hills Game Lodge stands as an iconic bastion of luxury and adventure amidst the breathtaking expanse of Tsavo West National Park in Taita-Taveta County, Kenya. Part of the renowned Sarova Hotels & Resorts portfolio, we are dedicated to providing unparalleled safari experiences, exquisite hospitality, and a deep connection to nature. Our lodge is famed for its unique architecture, offering stunning views of the plains, proximity to wildlife, and a commitment to sustainable tourism. We pride ourselves on creating unforgettable memories for our guests, combining comfort with thrilling wildlife encounters. Joining Sarova means becoming part of a passionate team that cherishes excellence, celebrates Kenyan heritage, and strives to exceed guest expectations at every turn. While our lodge is nestled in the heart of the park, our Voi office serves as a crucial hub for bookings, client consultations, and regional travel logistics.
Job Description
Are you a passionate explorer with an innate talent for crafting unforgettable journeys? Sarova Taita Hills Game Lodge is seeking a dynamic and highly motivated Travel Consultant to join our team in Voi. In this pivotal ‘Agency Role,’ you will be the architect of dreams, responsible for designing bespoke travel itineraries and experiences that captivate our diverse clientele. While primarily based in Voi, this role supports our lodge guests and external clients, specializing in safaris, local excursions, regional tours, and comprehensive travel logistics across Kenya and East Africa. You will leverage your deep destination knowledge, exceptional customer service skills, and sales prowess to understand client needs and recommend tailor-made solutions, ranging from intricate flight and accommodation bookings to personalized safari packages and cultural tours. This isn’t just about making bookings; it’s about curating narratives and delivering seamless, magical travel experiences from the initial inquiry to the client’s safe return. You will play a crucial role in enhancing our guests’ stay and expanding our reach in the regional travel market, contributing directly to the lodge’s reputation for excellence and creating lifelong memories for our visitors. Beyond direct client interaction, you will also be responsible for maintaining strong relationships with our network of suppliers, negotiating favorable rates, and staying abreast of the latest travel trends and industry innovations. Your ability to troubleshoot, adapt, and provide prompt, accurate information will be key to your success in this fast-paced and rewarding environment. We are looking for someone who is not only detail-oriented and organized but also possesses a genuine enthusiasm for travel and a commitment to delivering world-class service.
Key Responsibilities
- Consult with clients to understand their travel needs, preferences, and budget, designing customized itineraries.
- Book flights, accommodations, car rentals, safaris, and other travel components using various booking systems.
- Provide expert advice on destinations, travel regulations, visa requirements, and local customs, particularly for Kenya and East Africa.
- Process payments, issue tickets, and manage all necessary documentation accurately and efficiently.
- Achieve and exceed sales targets and contribute to revenue growth for the travel department.
- Maintain strong relationships with clients, ensuring high levels of satisfaction and encouraging repeat business.
- Liaise with tour operators, hoteliers, airlines, and other service providers to secure the best rates and services.
- Handle travel emergencies, changes, and cancellations with professionalism and efficiency.
- Keep up-to-date with travel industry trends, new destinations, and competitor offerings.
- Prepare reports on sales, customer feedback, and market insights.
Required Skills
- Proven experience as a Travel Consultant or similar role, preferably within a travel agency or hospitality setting.
- Excellent sales and negotiation skills with a customer-centric approach.
- In-depth knowledge of travel destinations, particularly within Kenya and East Africa (wildlife, culture, geography).
- Proficiency in using booking software and computer systems (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite).
- Outstanding communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
- Strong organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
- Problem-solving aptitude and ability to handle pressure.
Preferred Qualifications
- A Diploma or Degree in Tourism, Hospitality Management, or a related field.
- Experience with Global Distribution Systems (GDS) such as Amadeus, Sabre, or Galileo.
- Fluency in an additional language (e.g., Swahili, French, German) is a significant advantage.
- Personal travel experience within East Africa.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
- Opportunities for professional development and career growth within Sarova Hotels & Resorts.
- Staff discounts on accommodation and services across Sarova properties.
- A stimulating work environment in a leading hospitality group.
- Opportunity to work with a diverse and international clientele.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit their application, including a detailed CV and cover letter outlining their qualifications and experience, through our careers portal. Please clearly state ‘Application for Travel Consultant (Agency Role) – Voi’ in your application to ensure it reaches the correct department. We encourage you to highlight your passion for travel and your knowledge of Kenyan destinations. Click on the link below to apply for the job.