Reservations Manager

Novotel Queenstown Lakeside is located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, a 4 star property with 273 rooms, meeting facilities and a stunning view from our Elements Restaurant. Conveniently placed in prime location in Queenstown, making it one of the most iconic tourist destination Hotels in the World!

We are seeking an experienced Reservations Manager to lead and manage our Reservations Department. This role is responsible for maximising hotel occupancy and revenue through effective inventory management, forecasting, pricing strategies, and leadership of the reservations team.

The successful candidate will ensure the efficient operation of the reservations function while delivering exceptional customer service and supporting the overall commercial objectives of the hotel.

• Manage the day-to-day operations of the Reservations Department.
• Lead, supervise, train, and develop Reservations Team Members.
• Monitor room inventory, occupancy levels, and booking trends to maximise revenue opportunities.
• Develop and implement strategies to increase occupancy and room revenue.
• Prepare occupancy forecasts, revenue reports, and performance analysis for management.
• Manage room allocations, rate structures, allotments, and availability across all distribution channels.
• Coordinate group reservations and special accommodation requests.
• Identify and manage overbooking risks and implement appropriate solutions.
• Work closely with Front Office, Sales, Revenue, Food & Beverage, and other operational departments.
• Ensure all reservations enquiries are handled professionally and within established service standards.
• Maintain accurate records and reporting relating to reservations performance, travel agencies, and corporate accounts.
• Conduct regular reviews of booking patterns and market conditions to identify revenue opportunities.
• Participate in budgeting processes and departmental planning activities.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, health and safety requirements, and service standards.

• A minimum of 3 years’ relevant experience in hotel reservations, revenue management, front office management, or a related hospitality leadership role.
• Proven experience leading and developing teams within a hotel environment.
• Strong knowledge of hotel reservation systems and property management systems, preferably Opera PMS.
• Experience with inventory management, forecasting, pricing, and revenue optimisation.
• Strong analytical, reporting, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and perform effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to customer service excellence.