Job Summary
As the Base Operations Manager, you will oversee all aspects of ground operations, from managing logistics and team coordination to ensuring the highest levels of service, safety, and guest satisfaction at the camp. Stationed in the Serengeti, this role requires a proactive leader with a blend of strategic planning and hands-on management to maintain operational excellence while driving improvements across guest services, logistics, supply chain, team development, and efficiency. The chosen candidate will play a central role in implementing strategies to elevate service standards, while leading a team that embodies our core values of hospitality, safety, and professionalism. This role will report to the Director of Flight Operations.
Key Responsibilities:
Operations Management: Direct and manage all base operations, ensure safety protocols and efficiency, and oversee flawless execution of daily activities.
Logistics Management: Plan and manage logistics to keep the base camp operationally efficient at all times.
Resource & Inventory Management: Oversee supply chain logistics, from food and beverage to equipment to ensure the base camp is fully stocked and operationally prepared.
Quality Control & Safety Compliance: Establish and maintain high standards for cleanliness, organisation, and safety across all base camp facilities, ensuring compliance with regulatory and company standards.
Budgeting & Financial Oversight: Develop and manage the budget for base camp operations, including cost control, resource allocation, and financial planning.
Cross-Department Coordination: Collaborate with the pilots, balloon crew, drivers, hospitality, F&B, and guest services to ensure seamless communication and coordination across departments.
Guest Experience Oversight: Ensure all aspects of the guest experience, from arrival to departure, exceed expectations.
Team Development: Oversee recruitment, training, and performance of the base camp team, fostering a culture of professionalism, dedication, and hospitality.
Operational Enhancement: Regularly assess and refine operational processes, seeking innovative ways to enhance service quality, operational efficiency, and team effectiveness.
Mandatory Skills and Qualifications
Management Experience: Minimum of 5-7 years in a senior operational role within adventure tourism, safari, or hospitality with a strong background in team management.
Operational Expertise: Experience in planning, organising, and managing day-to-day operations in a complex setting in a camp, lodge, or safari operation.
Logistics Guru: Strong organisational and planning skills with a keen eye for detail.
Safety & Compliance Knowledge: Solid understanding of safety standards and regulations in the adventure tourism or hospitality industry.
Conflict Resolution Skills: Ability to mediate and resolve conflicts effectively, promoting a positive team environment and addressing issues promptly to maintain productivity.
Guest-Centric Approach: A commitment to creating memorable guest experiences, with a keen understanding of luxury service standards.
Financial and Budget Management: Experience in managing budgets, with strong financial acumen and an eye for resource optimization.
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 operational matters, contributing to overall growth and satisfaction.
Proactive: Anticipates potential risks and takes action before they become problems.
Team Player: Works well with colleagues across all levels to create a collaborative culture.
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