Tours Operations Manager

**Job Description: Operations Manager - Songhees Tours**

**Compensation**

$70,000 - $85,000 per year (depending on experience), plus benefits.

**Position Overview**:
We are seeking an experienced and motivated Operations Manager to lead the operations and growth of Songhees Tours, an Indigenous tourism venture rooted in authentic Lekwungen culture and community engagement. The Manager will play a pivotal role in overseeing all aspects of the business such as tour operations, staff management, budget and finance management, marketing, and strategic partnerships. This role demands a culturally-sensitive leader who is deeply committed to promoting Lekwungen heritage, fostering community connections, and ensuring exceptional guest experiences.

**Responsibilities**:

- **Strategic Leadership**: Develop and implement short-term and long-term strategies in alignment with the company's growth phases. Collaborate with leadership to drive excellence, establishment, and expansion of the business.
- **Operational Management**: Develop and oversee daily operations, including tour scheduling, logistics, policies and procedures, and customer service, ensuring seamless operations.
- **Team Leadership**: Recruit, manage, and mentor a diverse team, fostering a positive work environment and supporting ongoing growth and training.
- **Partnerships and Collaborations**: Establish and maintain partnerships with hotels, cruise lines, government agencies, tourism platforms, educational institutions, and other potential partners to expand market reach and enhance offerings.
- **Financial Management**: Monitor and work with accountants and/or bookkeepers to monitor all financial performance, budgets, and expenses to ensure the company's financial health and sustainability.
- **Guest Experience Enhancement**: Continuously improve guest experiences through feedback analysis, innovative offerings, and training, maintaining the highest standards of cultural authenticity and customer service.
- **Community Engagement**: Collaborate with the Songhees Nation community to ensure that cultural heritage and protocols are respected and upheld throughout all aspects of the business.
- **Regulatory Compliance**: Ensure compliance with relevant industry regulations, health and safety standards, and Indigenous cultural protocols.
- **Marketing and Promotion**: Oversee marketing teams and activities, developing marketing strategies that raise awareness and attract visitors, leveraging digital platforms, storytelling, and Indigenous branding.
- **Reporting**: Provide regular reports to leadership and stakeholders, showcasing operational performance, growth initiatives, and financial results.

**Qualifications**:

- Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Hospitality, Tourism, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
- 3+ years of experience in tourism management, with a strong track record of leadership and team development.
- Deep understanding and appreciation of Indigenous cultures, protocols, and traditions.
- Exceptional interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
- Strong business acumen, including financial management and strategic planning.
- Excellent communication and public speaking skills.
- Proficiency in digital platforms and tools for marketing and operations.
- Commitment to ethical business practices, sustainability, and community engagement.
- Familiarity with Indigenous tourism trends and best practices is an asset.

**Hours**

This is a full-time position, requiring a commitment of 40 hours per week. The role may involve some flexibility to accommodate operational demands, events, and seasonal schedules.

H**ow to Apply**

Pay: $70,000.00-$85,000.00 per year

**Benefits**:

- Dental care
- Disability insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision care

Schedule:

- Monday to Friday
- Weekends as needed

Ability to commute/relocate:

- Victoria, BC: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Application question(s):

- What is your level of understanding of the Lekwungen Peoples, their territories, and traditions?

**Education**:

- Bachelor's Degree (preferred)

**Experience**:

- tourism/hospitality management: 3 years (required)

Work Location: In person