Description

The reservations manager leads the reservation staff in the handling and implementing of procedures within the hotel while reporting to the front office manager. A reservations manager is required to supervise their reservation staff while allocating duties, training new hires, maintaining a work schedule, and handling guests. A typical day for a reservations manager includes working with the reservation staff in daily duties, receiving tasks from the front end manager, and assisting VIP customers with reservations to ensure customer retention. A reservation manager also must maintain a good relationship with commercial clients and inform reservation staff of top-producing accounts to ensure valued customers receive excellent service.

Typical employers of reservations managers include hotels; hotel chains and resorts often hire these types of managers. Reservations managers generally have an office where they can review customer reservations, arrival reports and the occupancy forecast. They also use their office for creating employee work schedules and giving their employees job reviews. Most companies hire reservations managers to fill a full-time position, and these professionals usually work during regular business hours.

A career in reservations management generally requires a minimum of three years of experience in a supervisor or assistant manager position. However, a combination of education in business management and experience may also be accepted. A career in this field also requires knowledge of the entire reservation process and hotel practices.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a Reservations Manager with 6-9 years of experience in the AE, your main responsibilities include:

  • Overseeing the reservations team, ensuring smooth operations, and providing guidance and support. Manage and lead the reservations team, ensuring efficient processes and offering assistance when needed.
  • Developing and implementing strategies to maximize occupancy and revenue. Create and execute plans to optimize room bookings and increase revenue generation.
  • Monitoring reservation systems and resolving any issues or discrepancies. Regularly check reservation systems for errors, conflicts, or inaccuracies, and resolve them promptly.
  • Collaborating with other departments to ensure seamless guest experiences.

Qualifications & Work Experience

The Reservations Manager is responsible for managing all aspects of the reservation process, including overseeing the reservation team, ensuring efficient and accurate booking procedures, and maintaining positive customer relationships. They work closely with the Sales and Marketing team to maximize revenue and occupancy rates. Additionally, they handle guest inquiries, resolve any issues or complaints, and maintain knowledge of hotel policies and procedures. The ideal candidate for this role possesses strong leadership and communication skills, exceptional attention to detail, and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.

Essential Skills For Reservations Manager

1

Security Management

2

Organisation Management

3

Guest Reservation System

4

Microsoft Excel

Career Prospects

The role of a Reservations Manager is crucial for ensuring smooth operations and customer satisfaction in the hospitality industry. With 6-9 years of experience in the United Arab Emirates region, professionals can consider these alternative roles:

  • Revenue Manager: A position that focuses on optimizing revenue through pricing strategies, inventory management, and forecasting.
  • Hotel Operations Manager: A role responsible for overseeing all aspects of hotel operations, including guest services, housekeeping, and front desk management.
  • Customer Service Manager: A position that emphasizes providing exceptional customer experiences, managing customer feedback, and implementing service improvement initiatives.
  • Sales Manager: A role focused on driving sales growth, developing sales strategies, and building relationships with corporate clients and travel agencies.

How to Learn

According to the latest data from Google, the job role of a Reservations Manager in the United Arab Emirates shows a promising growth trend in the market. Over the past 10 years, there has been a consistent increase in demand for this role, indicating a positive outlook for the future. With the thriving tourism industry and the development of new hotels and resorts in the region, employment opportunities for Reservations Managers are expected to rise significantly. The projected growth of this position suggests a steady increase in job openings, providing ample opportunities for individuals aspiring to enter or advance in this field.