Operations Manager

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture seeks suitable Nigeria Nationals for the position below at the Institutes Headquarters in Ibadan:

Position: I-House Operations Manager

Contract: 3-year renewable contract

Location: Ibadan

Closing Date: 11 March 2025

Summary:

This role oversees Front of House operations within Hospitality and Travel Services, including Reception, Housekeeping, Administrative Services, Laundry, Sports and Recreation, Campsite, and Conference bookings. The I-House Operations Manager analyzes data from the Front Office and Point of Sale systems to ensure accurate revenue allocation. Additionally, they act as deputy in the absence of the Head of Hospitality & Travel Services, ensuring seamless operation of all departments.

DUTIES:

Leadership and Management

• Supervise and manage all employees, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations of the International House.
• Understand employee roles to effectively assign or perform duties in their absence and ensure recognition across all areas of responsibility.
• Foster a collaborative team environment that promotes staff engagement and motivation.

Communication and Training

• Conduct regularly scheduled meetings with staff, communicating performance expectations and monitoring progress according to job descriptions.
• Identify the developmental needs of staff; provide coaching, mentoring and feedback to enhance skills and knowledge.
• Develop training programs that enhance team competencies and service delivery.

Guest Services

• Display exceptional leadership in guest hospitality, ensuring excellent customer service and creating a positive atmosphere for guest relations.
• Respond to and resolve guest problems and complaints promptly and effectively.
• Review guest satisfaction data, including comment cards and surveys, to identify areas for improvement and implement necessary changes.

Operational Efficiency

• Manage daily operations to ensure quality service delivery meets customer expectations across all departments.
• Analyze data from Front Office and Point of Sale systems to ensure revenue is captured and attributed correctly, meeting financial objectives.
• Oversee inventory management for all supplies, ensuring adequate stock levels while minimizing waste.

Financial Management

• Develop and manage budgets for the Front office, Housekeeping and other departments to achieve financial targets.
• Monitor and control departmental expenses while maximizing revenue opportunities.
• Conduct regular financial performance reviews and take corrective actions as necessary.

Goal Achievement

• Set and achieve performance goals, budget goals, and team objectives, encouraging the team to focus on critical operational components that drive guest satisfaction and financial results.
• Identify performance metrics and develop action plans to improve overall hotel performance.

Service Improvement and Standards

• Implement and uphold operational policies, procedures and service standards to consistently meet and exceed guest expectations.
• Monitor and enhance service quality by conducting regular audits and preparing reports to ensure compliance with international hospitality standards.

Sales and Marketing Collaboration

• Work closely with the internal sales teams to develop promotional strategies that drive room sales and enhance brand reputation.
• Participate in revenue management strategies by analyzing market trends and customer preferences to optimize pricing.

Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with all IITA/CGIAR, State and Federal regulations regarding safety, health and sanitation.
• Implement risk management strategies, ensuring proper security measures are in place for both guests and staff.

Additional Responsibilities

• Perform all other related duties as assigned by the Supervisor and assist the Head of Hospitality & Travel Services in their absence to ensure the smooth running of all departments.
• Maintain effective communication with other hospitality & travel departments to facilitate collaboration and operational coherence.
• Foster relationships with suppliers and service providers to ensure high-quality service and materials are available for operations.

Requirements

QUALIFICATION:

A Masters Degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field, with a minimum of eight (8) years of experience in a similar role within a well-structured environment

COMPETENCIES:

The ideal candidate must:

• Be able to command excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Have the ability to lead, influence and encourage others.
• Be familiar with front office software packages.
• Have sound knowledge of POS systems.
• Have excellent knowledge of the use of Microsoft Office.

Benefits

We offer highly competitive salary with equally attractive benefits and excellent working conditions in a pleasant campus environment.