Director of Tour Operations (GTR1816)

Gecko Travel Recruitment are working with a specialist travel business who are recruiting a Director of Tour Operations to join their team.

The Role:

As Director of Tour Operations you will lead and manage a small team responsible for designing and operating high-quality cultural and art-focused tours across Europe. You will oversee the planning, costing, and delivery of tours, liaise with European suppliers and US clients, and ensure a seamless customer experience from initial enquiry through to tour completion. The role also involves mentoring senior consultants, contributing to marketing materials, and occasionally leading tours to ensure exceptional service standards and smooth operations.

You Will Have:

• 10+ years' experience in organising and leading special interest or cultural tours
• Willingness to occasionally lead tours and handle operational responsibilities
• Management experience, leading a small team of consultants
• Working knowledge of at least one European language (Italian or Spanish preferred)
• Degree in either History, Arts or Horticulture
• Proven ability to multitask, prioritise, and make sound decisions under pressure
• Diplomatic, patient, and calm approach to problem-solving
• Confidence liaising with international clients and suppliers
• Experience with tour operations, itineraries, and promotional material creation (InDesign, Microsoft Office, CRM systems)

Additional Info:

• Generous salary package depending on experience plus excellent company benefits 
• Hybrid working model
• Leading 3 to 4 tours per year (depending on demand)
• Opportunity to shape and grow a prestigious cultural tours programme

Apply with your CV quoting GTR1816 or visit: www.geckotravelrecruitment.co.uk

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