Job Summary
We are looking for a dynamic and experienced Head of Drivers who will be the cornerstone of our ground team, ensuring smooth transport and logistics for all safari guests from start to finish. This position will be stationed in the Serengeti and will play a key role in leading a team of drivers, coordinating routes, maintaining our fleet, and delivering seamless service embodying the adventurous spirit of our brand, and ensuring safety and comfort at every turn. If you're an inspiring leader, an expert in navigation, and passionate about showcasing the magic of Serengeti, you don’t want to miss this opportunity. This role will report to the Base Operations Manager.
Key Responsibilities:
Team Leadership: Oversee, motivate, and train a team of drivers, setting standards for safety, customer service, and professionalism.
Scheduling & Route Planning: Coordinate daily pick-up and drop-off schedules for guests, ensuring punctuality and efficiency for all trips to and from launch sites.
Guest Experience & Safety: Ensure every journey for our guests is comfortable, safe, and memorable, with clear communications, a welcoming attitude, and spot-on timing.
Vehicle Fleet Management: Oversee the company’s fleet, coordinate and supervise vehicle maintenance, and monitor fuel management of all vehicles.
Safety & Compliance: Ensure all transportation activities meet company safety standards and local regulations, including conducting routine checks and driver training.
Health & Wellbeing: Create and maintain a roster for drivers to ensure enough work and rest periods for all team members.
Record keeping and budgeting: Keep track of all expenses and maintain the assigned budget for auditing purposes.
Operational Support & Collaboration: Work with the base operations and flight operations team to ensure smooth coordination between ground transport and balloon launch schedules.
Training & Development: Equip drivers with ongoing training to enhance skills in safety, first aid, customer service, and Serengeti wildlife knowledge, so every guest interaction is knowledgeable and memorable.
Mandatory Skills and Qualifications
Safari Savvy: Familiarity with the Serengeti landscape and have experience driving there.
Seasoned Driver: Valid driver’s licence with exemplary driving record with experience in 4x4 or off-road vehicles.
Leadership Skills: Proven experience managing or leading a team with excellent motivational, training, and supervisory skills.
Logistics Guru: Strong organisational and planning skills with a keen eye for detail.
Customer-Centric Mindset: You love working with people and your customer service skills are second to none.
Problem Solver: Adaptable and resourceful when it comes to last-minute changes or unexpected challenges.
Safety & Compliance Knowledge: Deep understanding of safety protocols, vehicle maintenance needs, and regulatory requirements for transportation.
Languages: Fluent in English and Swahili; additional languages are a plus.
Behavioural Skills
Calm Under Pressure: Maintains composure and clear thinking during high-pressure situations, particularly in the event of emergencies or incidents.
Safety-First Mindset: Always prioritises safety in decision-making and operations.
Attention to Detail: Maintains high standards in vehicle checks, safety procedures, and guest interactions, contributing to overall safety and satisfaction.
Proactive: Anticipates potential safety risks and takes action before they become problems.
Team Player: Works well with colleagues across all levels to create a strong culture of safety and quality.
Adaptable: Flexible in adjusting to last-minute changes and unexpected challenges, responding with a positive and collaborative approach.
Integrity and Accountability: Holds a strong sense of responsibility, following through on commitments and maintaining high ethical standards on behalf of the company.
Benefits
Competitive salary with accommodation & food
Health insurance
One month of annual leave
Complimentary balloon rides in the Serengeti
A dynamic and supportive work environment with opportunities for learning, professional growth, and development
Why Work With Us
We are Purpose-Driven: We’re passionate about creating unforgettable experiences, championing sustainable tourism, and preserving the Serengeti, ensuring your work has a real and lasting impact.
Supportive Culture: We believe magic happens when we collaborate and work as a team - just like our balloon rides! Our culture fosters a sense of belonging where work is fun and not a mundane boring chore.
Career & Personal Growth: We provide our team ongoing learning, mentorship, and clear paths for advancement, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to grow
Competitive Compensation: We offer competitive pay, great perks, and benefits that prioritise your well-being, because when you thrive, so do we!
Respect, Recognition and Reward: We will not shy away from appreciation, awards and rewards. Our team members will be rewarded through bonuses contingent with the company’s sales, turnover and growth.
How to Apply
Please submit your CV and a statement of purpose detailing your experience and why you would be a good fit for Flying Odyssey.
For quick and easy application, fill in the JOB APPLICATION FORM or send us an email to suzan@flyingodyssey.com