Commercial Manager

About the role

Kuona Serengeti, a newly opened ten‑tent luxury camp in the Central Serengeti, is seeking a Commercial Manager to build its sales pipeline from scratch. You will be responsible for turning an unknown brand into a top‑recommended destination for tour operators and direct guests.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and manage a trade pipeline, converting 100‑200 prospects into 10‑20 signed operator agreements in the first year.
• Design and implement rate strategies, including seasonal pricing, rack and net rates, allocations, and exclusive‑use pricing.
• Maintain the contracting calendar to ensure published rates are available before operators close their seasons.
• Represent the camp at key trade shows and familiarisation trips (Karibu/KiliFair, ITB Berlin, WTM London) and organise FAM trips.
• Oversee direct and digital channels: website, OTA listings, booking engine, SafariBookings, and review management.
• Monitor commercial metrics such as occupancy, average rate, length of stay, and weekly pipeline performance.

Required profile

• 5‑7 years of commercial, sales or business development experience, preferably in luxury tourism.
• Bachelor’s degree (Master’s degree is a strong advantage).
• Deep knowledge of the Tanzanian (Serengeti/Northern Circuit) or Kenyan tourism market.
• Proven track record of signing accounts, negotiating rates, and driving occupancy.
• Fluent English; Swahili is a strong plus.

Required skills

• Experience negotiating contracts with inbound tour operators and DMCs.
• Understanding of rate structures, commissions, and allocation management.
• Familiarity with digital distribution platforms and OTA booking engines.

What we offer

• Competitive salary with a performance‑linked component.
• Seat on the Executive Committee and direct access to the Managing Director.
• Authority to make commercial decisions for a differentiated product in a premier wildlife location.