If you are seeking an exciting career opportunity in Tanzania’s tourism and safari industry, Thomson Safaris is currently recruiting qualified and experienced professionals to join its team in Arusha. With over 45 years of experience in conservation-driven wildlife safaris, the company is well known for its expert guides, exceptional safari experiences, and strong commitment to sustainable tourism.

The organization is inviting applications for two senior management positions that will support operational excellence and high-quality safari services.

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1. Fleet & Workshop Manager

Position: Fleet & Workshop Manager
Location: Arusha, Tanzania
Reports To: General Manager

Job Summary

The Fleet & Workshop Manager is responsible for overseeing the maintenance, repair, and operational readiness of all vehicles and mechanical assets used in safari operations. The role ensures maximum vehicle uptime, safety, reliability, and cost efficiency.

The position works closely with the Operations, Transport, and Finance departments to ensure proper planning, reporting, budgeting, and compliance with regulations.

Key Responsibilities

Fleet Management & Operational Readiness

• Oversee daily operations of the safari fleet including 4×4 vehicles, transfer vehicles, and support units.
• Ensure all vehicles are roadworthy, safe, and ready for safari operations.
• Develop and implement preventive maintenance schedules.
• Monitor breakdown trends and vehicle performance.
• Coordinate vehicle availability based on safari schedules.
• Maintain accurate fleet performance records.

Workshop & Maintenance Oversight

• Manage workshop operations, tools, equipment, and spare parts inventory.
• Ensure timely diagnostics, repairs, servicing, and overhauls.
• Implement quality control procedures for repairs.
• Conduct root-cause analysis to reduce repeat breakdowns.
• Maintain detailed service histories for all vehicles.

Preventive & Corrective Maintenance

• Implement structured preventive maintenance programs.
• Conduct daily pre-safari vehicle inspections.
• Respond quickly to breakdowns, including remote bush recoveries.
• Minimize vehicle downtime through efficient repair processes.

Spare Parts & Inventory Management

• Forecast spare parts requirements and maintain optimal stock levels.
• Track parts issuance and workshop consumables.
• Negotiate pricing with suppliers to achieve value for money.
• Approve purchase requests and manage third-party service providers.

Budgeting & Cost Control

• Prepare and manage fleet and workshop budgets.
• Monitor fuel consumption and operational inefficiencies.
• Track maintenance costs per vehicle or kilometre.
• Provide monthly cost and performance reports to management.

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure compliance with OSHA, Police, Fire, LATRA, TANROADS, TRA, and insurance regulations.
• Conduct vehicle safety audits and staff training on emergency procedures.
• Coordinate emergency responses to breakdowns and accidents.

Reporting & Performance Monitoring

• Prepare weekly and monthly fleet reports.
• Track key KPIs such as fleet uptime, breakdown rates, repair turnaround time, and maintenance costs.
• Provide recommendations on vehicle replacement or refurbishment.

Team Leadership & Training

• Supervise and train workshop staff and mechanics.
• Conduct performance evaluations and mentorship programs.
• Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and operational excellence.

Field Support & Remote Operations

• Provide technical support during safaris in remote areas.
• Coordinate recovery operations for vehicles in difficult terrain.
• Ensure vehicles carry emergency kits and recovery tools.
• Develop contingency plans during peak safari seasons.

Qualifications & Experience

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Technology, or related field.
• Minimum 6+ years of experience in fleet or workshop management.
• Experience managing 4×4 safari vehicles such as Land Rover Defender and Toyota Land Cruiser.
• Strong mechanical diagnostic and troubleshooting skills.
• Knowledge of cost control, inventory management, and fleet management systems.

Key Competencies

• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Advanced mechanical expertise
• Data-driven decision making
• Financial discipline and analytical thinking
• Strong planning and communication skills

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2. HOD – Tented (Camping) Division

Position: Head of Department – Tented (Camping) Division
Company: Thomson Safaris
Location: Arusha, Tanzania
Reports To: General Manager

Role Summary

The Head of Department – Tented Division is responsible for managing all camping and tented safari operations. The role focuses on ensuring operational excellence, high guest satisfaction, effective staff management, cost control, and compliance with tourism and safety regulations.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Management

• Oversee daily camping operations in line with company policies and SOPs.
• Conduct field visits and operational audits.
• Ensure camps remain fully functional with proper maintenance schedules.
• Maintain knowledge of operational areas relevant to safari itineraries.

Camp Logistics & Supply Chain

• Oversee logistics planning for food supplies, equipment, and staff needs.
• Implement inventory control systems across camps.
• Maintain accurate stock records and reporting.
• Apply cost-efficiency measures in logistics and supply operations.

Procurement & Supplier Management

• Manage relationships with suppliers and contractors.
• Ensure compliance with supplier contracts and pricing agreements.
• Coordinate procurement of camping equipment and services.
• Review supplier performance and recommend improvements.

People Management & Leadership

• Lead teams including logistics staff, procurement officers, cooks, service crews, technical teams, and storekeepers.
• Approve staff rosters and leave plans.
• Set departmental performance targets.
• Provide training and coaching to build team capability.

Guest Service & Quality Assurance

• Ensure high standards of guest hospitality and safari service delivery.
• Manage guest complaints and service recovery processes.
• Monitor guest feedback and implement service improvements.
• Ensure guest safety and security in camp environments.

Financial Management & Reporting

• Assist in preparing operational budgets.
• Monitor expenditure and implement cost-control measures.
• Submit accurate operational and financial reports.

Compliance, Safety & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with tourism regulations and safety standards.
• Conduct risk assessments and mitigation planning.
• Maintain readiness for internal and external audits.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Liaise with park authorities, regulatory bodies, suppliers, and community partners.
• Support permits, access requirements, and regulatory compliance for safari camps.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Tourism Management, Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum 6+ years of experience in hospitality, safari operations, or remote tourism environments.
• Experience managing tented camps or mobile safari camps.
• Strong knowledge of camp logistics, procurement, and inventory management.
• Proven experience in budget control and operational reporting.

Key Skills

• Leadership and team management
• Strong operational planning abilities
• Problem-solving and decision-making under pressure
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement
• Knowledge of occupational health and safety standards
• Willingness to travel and work in remote safari locations

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit the following:

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Copies of academic certificates
• A cover letter outlining relevant experience and qualifications

Applications should be sent via email to: recruitment@thomsonsafaris.co.tz, Application Deadline: March 25, 2026, Applicants must include the job title in the subject line of their email:

• “Fleet & Workshop Manager”
• “HOD – Tented (Camping) Division”

These positions offer a great opportunity for experienced professionals looking to build a career in Tanzania’s luxury safari and tourism sector with a reputable organization.