5+ years of experience in operations of inbound tourism, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or management role.
Manager - Inbound Tours
We are largest inbound operator in India and now opening an office in Srilanka and that is why we are seeking an experienced tourism professional to lead inbound tour operations for Sri Lanka. The role oversees product development, supplier relationships, program execution, and guest experience from arrival to departure. The ideal candidate combines strategic planning with hands-on management to deliver high-quality, profitable, and safe tour experiences for international visitors.
Key responsibilities
- Develop and manage inbound tour programs and itineraries that showcase Sri Lanka’s destinations, culture, and experiences.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with local hotels, transport providers, guides, attractions, and other ground handlers; negotiate contracts and manage vendor performance.
- Lead operations for inbound groups, FIT (free individual traveler) tours, and corporate events; balance quality with cost control.
- Monitor and improve customer experience, from pre-trip communications to post-trip feedback; implement service standards and corrective actions as needed.
- Manage day-to-day tour operations, including staffing, guide assignments, safety and risk management, and crisis response.
- Prepare budgets, monitor KPIs (occupancy, yield, cost per guest, client satisfaction), and prepare periodic performance reports for senior management.
- Ensure compliance with Sri Lankan tourism regulations, insurance, safety guidelines, and industry best practices.
- Develop marketing partnerships and work with the sales team to grow inbound business from key international markets.
- Lead, train, and supervise a team of inbound tour coordinators, operations staff, and guides; foster a collaborative and compliant work environment.
- Stay informed about market trends, competitor offerings, and new product opportunities within Sri Lanka.
Required qualifications and skills
- Bachelor’s degree in Tourism, Hospitality Management, Business, or a related field.
- 5+ years of experience in operations of inbound tourism, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or management role.
- Strong knowledge of Sri Lanka’s destinations, attractions, transport, and supplier landscape.
- Excellent negotiation, vendor management, budgeting, and contract skills.
- Proficiency in English (written and spoken); additional languages are an asset.
- Customer-service orientation with strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
- Proficient in MS Office; experience with tourism software/CRM and basic data analysis.
- Ability to travel regionally within Sri Lanka as needed and work flexible hours to support on-site operations.
Preferred qualifications
- Experience with DMC operations, group tours, and high-end or specialty itineraries.
- Knowledge of safety protocols, health and insurance requirements for international travelers.
- Leadership experience in a multicultural team environment.
Location and reporting
- Based in Colombo (with flexibility for regional travel as required).
- Reports to: Director of Operations or General Manager, Inbound Tourism.
Compensation and benefits
- Market-competitive salary aligned with experience.
- Benefits package typical for the industry (performance bonuses, health insurance, paid leave, professional development opportunities).
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