Reservationist

We are seeking a professional Hotel Reservationist/Communications Agent to join The President Hotels Front Office team. The successful candidate will take full ownership of managing all reservation communications, ensuring accurate, timely, and seamless booking processes that reflect the hotels luxury standards. This role is critical to driving occupancy, revenue, and exceptional guest experiences.Critical Criteria (Requirements)Minimum 23 years experience in hotel reservations within a 4 or 5-star propertyProven experience handling guest, travel agent, and corporate reservations, including managing cancellations and modificationsStrong knowledge of Opera PMS Version V5 and proficiency in Microsoft Word, Outlook, and ExcelMatric certificate (Grade 12); Hotel School Diploma or hospitality qualification advantageousExcellent telephone manner, communication, and interpersonal skillsAbility to work accurately under pressure while maintaining a professional and guest-centric approachStrong planning, organisational, and time-management skillsSouth African citizen with a valid IDKey Competenciesð¹ Guest-Centric Service Deliver courteous, professional, and efficient reservation service to all guests and partnersð¹ Operational Accuracy Maintain accurate reservation records, confirmations, and advance depositsð¹ Communication & Coordination Liaise effectively with Front Office, Housekeeping, and other departments for seamless guest arrivalsð¹ Problem Solving & Initiative Handle reservation discrepancies, cancellations, and non-arrivals efficientlyð¹ Detail Orientation & Compliance Ensure adherence to hotel SOPs, policies, and Best Available Rate (BAR) proceduresDuties & ResponsibilitiesRespond to guest, travel agent, and referral network communications via telephone, email, mail, fax, or online booking systemsCreate, maintain, and update reservation records by date of arrival and alphabetical listingPrepare confirmation letters, pro-forma invoices, and process cancellations or modifications promptlyUnderstand and apply BAR (Best Available Rate) and basic yield management principlesMonitor and follow up on advance deposits, payments, and travel agent vouchersEnsure guest quotes, confirmations, and invoices are accurate and aligned with bookingsCollect travel agent vouchers and ensure consistency with Opera PMS recordsMaintain guest history, VIP profiles, and company details accuratelyPrepare daily arrival lists, seven-day forecasts, and pre-registration documentsFollow up on cancellations, no-shows, and non-arrivals, applying fees where necessaryHandle all correspondence and communications related to reservationsEnsure adherence to reservation procedures and standards to achieve optimal occupancy and average room ratesAttend to trace reports, emails, PIT updates, direct billing, refunds, and group reservationsMaintain a neat, organized, and fully stocked reservation deskParticipate in daily briefings, provide accurate handovers, and liaise with other departments (Housekeeping, Porters, Room Service) for seamless servicePerform end-of-shift checks to ensure no unresolved guest issues remainDemonstrate a professional, positive, and team-oriented attitude at all timesLive and promote the hotels values of Teamwork, Respect, Innovation, Accountability, Passion, and IntegrityPackage on OfferBasic salary (TBA)50/50 contribution to PensionCompany contribution to medical aidImportant Application NotesMust hold a valid South African IDOnly candidates with relevant hotel reservation experience will be shortlistedEnsure your CV is 100% updatedAll applicants will attend a virtual introduction interviewRecruitment aligns with the companys Employment Equity PlanBe the first point of contact for guests, ensuring smooth reservations, accurate booking management, and an exceptional first impression at Cape Towns most loved luxury hotelAbout The Hotel:The President Hotel is on a journey to be considered a true luxury destination.Our purpose: to create and inspire memorable experiences.Our vision: to become Cape Towns most loved hotel.Set in the heart of Bantry Bay, between Cape Towns vibrant city life and the Atlantic Ocean, The President Hotel offers 349 stylish rooms, suites, and apartments, breathtaking views, a palm-lined infinity pool, world-class dining, and state-of-the-art conference and event venues.