Ground Operations & Program Delivery Manager – Senegal & Gambia

About the role

We are seeking an experienced professional to lead ground operations and program delivery for group travel, events and incentive tours across Senegal and The Gambia. Reporting to regional leadership, you will act as the senior on‑ground representative, ensuring seamless execution of multi‑day itineraries, VIP programs and festival‑based departures.

Key responsibilities

• Design, cost and operate itineraries for multi‑day group tours, private/VIP programs and music‑festival departures.
• Manage inbound leisure groups end‑to‑end, including airport meet‑and‑greet, transfers, hotel coordination, excursions, restaurant and event reservations, and on‑ground issue resolution.
• Plan and deliver event‑based group programs such as music festivals and cultural experiences.
• Contract, schedule and supervise freelance guides, drivers and operational staff; oversee Dakar‑based vehicle operations, maintenance and utilization.
• Negotiate and manage partnerships with hotels, transport providers, restaurants, venues and destination partners; monitor supplier performance and onboard new partners.
• Prepare and present customized proposals for group travel, incentive programs and special requests in coordination with the US team.
• Represent the company at industry events, trade shows and client meetings across the region.
• Monitor tourism trends, competitor activity and market opportunities; contribute to new product development and regional growth initiatives.

Required profile

• 7–10 years of experience in inbound tour operations, destination management or leisure group travel.
• Strong network within Senegal’s tourism and hospitality ecosystem.
• Proven experience managing guides, drivers and field teams.
• Experience in supplier management, contract negotiation and event coordination.
• Excellent communication, presentation and stakeholder‑management skills.
• Bachelor’s degree in Tourism, Hospitality, Business Administration, International Relations or related field.
• Fluent French and professional English; additional local languages a plus.

Required skills

What we offer

• Full‑time, on‑site and field‑based role with regional travel opportunities.
• Collaboration with an international team and US headquarters.
• Opportunity to shape tourism products across West Africa.