Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Affiliations
Timeline
Home Address
Driver License
Health
Personal Information
Home Address
Driver License
Health
Personal Information
Home Address
Driver License
Health
Personal Information
OperationsManager

Thomas Wilson

Operations Manager
Vaalwater

Summary

Professional Summary

Dedicated and results-oriented Operations Manager with a proven track record of success in the hospitality and tourism industry, particularly within the unique setting of wildlife conservation and ecotourism. With comprehensive experience in overseeing the operational aspects of a premier Game Reserve, such as Kololo Game Reserve, I excel in optimizing efficiency, enhancing guest experiences, and ensuring the seamless coordination of diverse functions within the establishment.

My leadership skills are underscored by a hands-on approach, fostering collaborative environments, and motivating teams to deliver exceptional service standards while maintaining a strong commitment to wildlife conservation and environmental sustainability. Through strategic planning and resource allocation, I have consistently achieved operational objectives while adhering to regulatory standards and fostering a culture of safety.

With a keen eye for detail and a proactive approach to problem-solving, I thrive in dynamic environments, adept at adapting to changing circumstances and implementing innovative solutions to enhance operational effectiveness. Leveraging strong interpersonal skills, I excel in building and nurturing relationships with stakeholders, including staff, guests, suppliers, and local communities, to drive mutual success and foster a positive reputation for Kololo Game Reserve.

As an Operations Manager at Kololo Game Reserve, I am poised to leverage my expertise to uphold the Reserve's commitment to providing unparalleled guest experiences, preserving biodiversity, and contributing to the sustainable development of the region.

Overview

19
19
years of professional experience

Work History

Operations Manager

Kololo Game Reserve
04.2020 - Current
  • Conducted regular performance reviews, identifying areas for improvement and developing action plans to address them.
  • Achieved higher employee retention rates by fostering positive work environment and providing opportunities for professional growth.
  • Championed safety protocols to maintain secure working environment, reducing workplace accidents significantly.
  • Optimized supply chain operations through strategic vendor partnerships and efficient logistics planning.
  • Handled staff training initiatives aimed at up-skilling workforce to meet dynamic industry demands.
  • Facilitated smooth collaboration between departments through clear communication channels.
  • Developed strong relationships with vendors, resulting in better pricing and improved service quality.
  • Oversaw facility maintenance, ensuring optimal functionality of equipment and infrastructure at all times.
  • Implemented quality control systems that boosted overall product consistency and reliability.
  • Developed robust contingency plans to ensure business continuity during unforeseen disruptions.
  • Identified and resolved unauthorized, unsafe, or ineffective practices.
  • Introduced new methods, practices, and systems to reduce turnaround time.
  • Negotiated contracts with vendors and suppliers to obtain best pricing and terms.
  • Managed inventory and supply chain operations to achieve timely and accurate delivery of goods and services.
  • Led hiring, onboarding and training of new hires to fulfill business requirements.
  • Supervised operations staff and kept employees compliant with company policies and procedures.
  • Developed and implemented strategies to maximize customer satisfaction.
  • Developed and maintained relationships with external vendors and suppliers.
  • Partnered with vendors and suppliers to effectively manage and budget.
  • Scheduled employees for shifts, taking into account customer traffic and employee strengths.
  • Maintained excellent relationships with customers to build connections and nurture relationships.
  • Improved community awareness on conservation issues by conducting educational programs and presentations.
  • Implemented effective patrol strategies to reduce illegal hunting activities within assigned areas.
  • Enhanced public safety by monitoring and enforcing wildlife laws and regulations.
  • Facilitated training sessions for new Field Guides, sharing knowledge on best practices while fostering a supportive learning environment.
  • Promoted responsible outdoor recreation among reserve users through consistent enforcement of rules and guidelines regarding resource use or access restrictions.
  • Conducted thorough investigations on poaching incidents, leading to apprehension of violators.
  • Conducted research on emerging trends or issues relevant to field of wildlife conservation, applying findings to inform decision-making processes in daily work activities.
  • Protected endangered species through vigilant surveillance of natural habitats and reporting illegal activities.
  • Assessed potential environmental hazards impacting local wildlife populations and reported findings to appropriate authorities for remedial action planning.
  • Managed fire-arm inventory and maintained essential gear in good working condition for field operations.
  • Provided emergency assistance during natural disasters (mostly fire related), ensuring safety of staff, customers and animals impacted by such events.
  • Developed strong relationships with local landowners, promoting cooperation in addressing wildlife management concerns.
  • Evaluated permit applications for various activities involving protected resources or animals, ensuring that proposed actions aligned with established conservation goals before granting approval or denial decisions accordingly.

Maintenance Manager

Kololo Game Reserve
05.2019 - 10.2020
  • Negotiated contracts with vendors for cost-effective procurement of parts and services, maintaining strong working relationships.
  • Promoted culture of continuous improvement within maintenance team by encouraging open communication, problem-solving initiatives, and employee engagement activities.
  • Fostered cross-functional teamwork among departments to achieve seamless collaboration on shared objectives.
  • Enhanced safety standards through regular inspections, staff training, and adherence to OSHA guidelines.
  • Implemented energy conservation measures that led to significant savings on utility bills without compromising facility operations.
  • Optimized spare parts inventory management by identifying critical items and setting appropriate stock levels based on usage patterns.
  • Developed detailed maintenance budgets, effectively controlling expenses while ensuring optimal equipment performance.
  • Improved equipment reliability by implementing a preventive maintenance program and managing repair schedules.
  • Increased overall equipment efficiency by conducting thorough assessments of machinery conditions and implementing necessary improvements.
  • Mentored new hires in company procedures, safety protocols, and technical skills necessary for their roles as maintenance professionals.
  • Led successful completion of major facility upgrades projects while adhering to budget constraints and timelines.
  • Completed partial or full dismantling of equipment to quickly repair or replace defective components and restore functionality.
  • Procured pricing information from various vendors to support cost-effective purchasing.
  • Scheduled regular inspections of equipment and facilities to manage wear and tear.
  • Collaborated with other departments to verify completion of maintenance tasks.
  • Improved staffing during busy periods by creating employee schedules and monitoring call-outs.
  • Trained personnel in equipment maintenance and enforced participation in exercises focused on developing key skills.
  • Assisted in organizing and overseeing assignments to drive operational excellence.
  • Maintained professional demeanor by staying calm when addressing unhappy or angry customers.
  • Cultivated positive rapport with fellow employees to boost company morale and promote employee retention.

Field Technician

New Resolution Geophysics
08.2016 - 04.2019
  • Field collection of Geophysical data, Field processing of Geophysical data, Field Management of airborne projects, Client Liaison, Assistance with field logistics, Reconciliation and managing field expenses, Field Reports to head office and client, Weekly safety meetings & minutes, Installation of Geophysical equipment in aircraft, Maintenance of Geophysical equipment, Inventory and stock control of equipment, Ensuring that sufficient level of spares is available at all times.
  • Maintained up-to-date knowledge of industry developments, ensuring application of best practices in all aspects of work.
  • Collaborated effectively with multidisciplinary teams for seamless project execution.
  • Cultivated strong relationships with clients by being attentive to their needs and addressing concerns promptly.
  • Handled sensitive information discreetly, adhering to strict confidentiality protocols as required by clients or regulations.
  • Contributed to successful project outcomes through diligent preparation and execution of survey plans.
  • Provided timely reports to clients, maintaining excellent communication throughout the project duration.
  • Enhanced team productivity by consistently completing assigned tasks ahead of schedule.
  • Ensured high-quality deliverables by conducting regular quality checks on collected data.
  • Reduced errors in survey data by implementing rigorous verification procedures.
  • Increased efficiency in data collection by utilizing advanced survey equipment and software.
  • Maintained excellent safety records through consistent adherence to established guidelines during fieldwork activities.
  • Produced detailed geophysical survey maps for quality assurance purposes.
  • Completed daily data updates and submitted information to quality assurance for review and implementation.
  • Performed airborne geophysical surveys.

Logistics & Operations

XCALIBUR AIRBORNE GEOPHYSICS
08.2013 - 07.2016
  • Logistical support, data capturing, processing geophysical data using Geosoft, Handling of geophysical equipment operationally and maintenance, In-field handling of aircraft and helicopter operations, planning and movement of aircraft to contractual countries and areas of operations, Crew rotation and planning, in-field procurement of fuel and permits for international contracts for crew and aircraft, in-house training and evaluation of trainees, in-field finance and production reports
  • Liaising with clients and country officials while on site.
  • Managed logistics operations to meet customer expectations and financial standards and policies.
  • Evaluated supply policies, plans and procedures to identify inefficiencies and problems impacting logistics operations and supply accountability.
  • Worked directly with production team to manage operations, logistics, workspaces, and budgeting.
  • Managed job logistics and field operations successfully to complete accurately and efficiently complete projects.
  • Managed logistics budgets and forecasting to achieve cost-effective operations.
  • Accountable for resources, safety, employment and logistics to direct operations.
  • Managed day-to-day operations, logistics and schedules.
  • Resolved problems, improved operations and provided exceptional service.
  • Assisted senior leadership in managing all aspects of operations.
  • Negotiated favorable contracts with suppliers, securing optimal pricing structures while maintaining strong working relationships throughout engagements.
  • Directed shipping and receiving of wide range of equipment internationally.
  • Kept corporate departments and customers updated on critical shipments.
  • Resolved shipping discrepancies by coordinating customer and courier communications.
  • Oversaw project staff and maintained efficiency in fast-paced environment.
  • Organized records of aircraft & vehicles, schedules to complete operations.

Pre-Authorisation Agent

Discovery Health Centurion
07.2012 - 08.2013
  • Pre-authorisations of hospital procedures and medical treatment for Discovery Health members.
  • Maintained accurate records of client communications, transactions, policies, and other relevant documentation for seamless operations within the agency.
  • Managed complex cases involving high-risk clientele or unique circumstances, successfully mitigating potential challenges through diligent research and collaboration with colleagues.
  • Negotiated favorable contract terms for clients, securing competitive rates and coverage options.
  • Analyzed client portfolios to identify potential gaps in coverage, offering suitable recommendations based on individual needs.
  • Enhanced client satisfaction by promptly addressing inquiries and providing accurate information on products and services.
  • Delivered exceptional customer service by proactively addressing concerns and fostering a positive experience throughout all interactions.
  • Collaborated with underwriters to develop tailored insurance solutions for clients while managing risk exposure for the company.
  • Informed clients of policies and procedures.
  • Maintained comprehensive product and service knowledge for accurate, informative customer advice.
  • Processed customer orders quickly and accurately for timely delivery.
  • Handled and promptly resolved customer complaints to maintain professional relationships.
  • De-escalated and resolved customer complaints with punctual, polite and professional service.
  • Reviewed and executed confidential documents, contracts and disclosures.

Basic Life Support Practitioner

Emer-G-Med Ambulance Service
02.2009 - 06.2012
  • Road Operations, attending to emergency calls.
  • Ensured patient safety by adhering to strict protocols for proper lifting techniques, equipment use, and infection control.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities such as conferences or workshops to stay current on best practices in pre-hospital emergency medicine.
  • Improved patient outcomes by providing timely and accurate assessments, treatments, and interventions.
  • Increased survival rates with rapid recognition of life-threatening conditions and swift initiation of appropriate interventions.
  • Reduced response times by maintaining thorough knowledge of local geography and navigation routes.
  • Performed thorough vehicle inspections before and after shifts to maintain operational readiness and ensure compliance with state regulations.
  • Streamlined patient handoff processes at hospitals by clearly communicating relevant information to receiving staff, ensuring seamless continuity of care.
  • Managed challenging or combative patients using de-escalation techniques and appropriate physical restraints when necessary, prioritizing safety for both the patient and medical team.
  • Supported local disaster response efforts by preparing ambulances with necessary supplies and assisting victims at mass casualty incidents or natural disasters.
  • Provided critical incident stress debriefing to fellow emergency medical services personnel following traumatic calls, fostering a supportive work environment for all team members.
  • Safeguarded ambulance equipment through regular inventory checks, cleaning routines, and reporting any damaged items for replacement or repair immediately.
  • Coordinated with other emergency services personnel such as police officers and firefighters during complex incidents for optimal scene management and resource allocation.
  • Delegated life-saving tasks to provide comprehensive treatment to triaged patients in emergency situations.
  • Evaluated patient vital signs and status to determine care needs using pulse oximeters and electronic vital sign machines.
  • Adapted treatment plans quickly and effectively based on changing patient conditions and reactions.
  • Administered fluid replacement via IV, IO, and IM to replace fluid volumes and correct electrolyte imbalances.
  • Conducted equipment and vehicle checks to maintain continuous and safe operation.
  • Triaged injuries by communicating with patients, bystanders and family members and identified appropriate medical facility for transport.
  • Assessed patient condition through physical and verbal exams and by collecting information from others at scene.
  • Restocked ambulance with proper equipment such as vents, ET tubes, medication, and IV pump tubing to maintain optimum inventory.
  • Administered continuous 12-lead electrocardiogram monitoring to record heart rhythms in patients with acute coronary syndrome.
  • Transferred patients safely and securely to medical facilities for continued care.
  • Responded to daily emergencies and worked alongside firemen and EMTs.
  • Performed intubations to secure airway in patients under respiratory and cardiac arrest.
  • Communicated with medical professionals in medical terms to relay patient needs and maintain accuracy.
  • Worked en-route to hospital to prepare patients for arrival or surgery and control wounds.
  • Communicated with treatment center personnel and dispatchers to provide information about situation, arrange reception of victims and receive instructions for further treatment.
  • Administered first-aid treatment to reduce pain and minimize risk of complications.
  • Placed patients on backboards or stretchers to safely load into ambulance.
  • Monitored patients' vital signs to assess condition and identify necessary medical interventions.
  • Provided CPR and used automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to revive patients in cardiac arrest.
  • Liaised with police, fire department and other emergency responders to manage emergency scenes.
  • Responded to emergency calls to provide immediate and life-saving medical care.

Data Capturer (Limited Period Contract)

MSWELI INDUSTRIAL PROJECTS CC
07.2008 - 09.2008
  • Back-capture of data pertaining to Time worked as well as Plant and Materials used during the construction of Goedgevonden Colliery, Ogies.

Mining Crew Manager

Minas Dinamicas Mozambique
01.2008 - 05.2008
  • Management of mine personnel and logistics.

Geophysics Technician

XCALIBUR AIRBORNE GEOPHYSICS
05.2007 - 12.2007
  • Logistics, data capturing, processing geophysical data, basic ground handling of aircraft and helicopter i.e
  • Refuelling, directing of aircraft and undercarriage lifting.

QC Assistant

A.J.P. Investments (Pty) Ltd
10.2006 - 04.2007
  • Locating of piping and welds, quality control and releasing of piping and welds, QC pipe assemblies and Spools according to Approved for Construction Drawings.

General Assistant

Dash Eng. & Industrial Supplies cc
01.2005 - 12.2005
  • Use of electric tools; Reading and Sketching production drawings; Liaising with clients; experience in drilling, milling machine and basic machining on lathe.
  • Increased productivity by quickly learning and mastering various metal fabrication tools and equipment.
  • Gained hands-on experience with various welding techniques for joining sheet metal components securely and efficiently.
  • Expanded skillset through active participation in ongoing apprenticeship training sessions and workshops.
  • Improved project efficiency by accurately measuring and cutting metal materials.
  • Provided excellent customer service while conducting onsite repairs or installations at residential or commercial locations.
  • Selected gauges and types of metal or non-metallic material to meet product specifications.
  • Used rulers, squares and scribes to measure and mark dimensions and reference lines on materials.
  • Fastened joints and seams together to assemble components into metal products.
  • Performed quality finishes by trimming and deburring to create smooth surfaces and joints of assembled parts.

Education

National Senior Certificate -

High School for Boys, Potchefstroom

Basic Ambulance Assistant -

Human Emergency Life Programme
South Africa

NQF4 - Crew Leader Wild Land Fire Fighting

Firescape
South Africa
04.2001 -

NQF2 - Basic Wild Land Fire Fighting

Firescape
South Africa
04.2001 -

Skills

Transportation Management

Affiliations

Fire Protection Association of South Africa

The Health Professions Council of South Africa

Timeline

Operations Manager

Kololo Game Reserve
04.2020 - Current

Maintenance Manager

Kololo Game Reserve
05.2019 - 10.2020

Field Technician

New Resolution Geophysics
08.2016 - 04.2019

Logistics & Operations

XCALIBUR AIRBORNE GEOPHYSICS
08.2013 - 07.2016

Pre-Authorisation Agent

Discovery Health Centurion
07.2012 - 08.2013

Basic Life Support Practitioner

Emer-G-Med Ambulance Service
02.2009 - 06.2012

Data Capturer (Limited Period Contract)

MSWELI INDUSTRIAL PROJECTS CC
07.2008 - 09.2008

Mining Crew Manager

Minas Dinamicas Mozambique
01.2008 - 05.2008

Geophysics Technician

XCALIBUR AIRBORNE GEOPHYSICS
05.2007 - 12.2007

QC Assistant

A.J.P. Investments (Pty) Ltd
10.2006 - 04.2007

General Assistant

Dash Eng. & Industrial Supplies cc
01.2005 - 12.2005

NQF4 - Crew Leader Wild Land Fire Fighting

Firescape
04.2001 -

NQF2 - Basic Wild Land Fire Fighting

Firescape
04.2001 -

National Senior Certificate -

High School for Boys, Potchefstroom

Basic Ambulance Assistant -

Human Emergency Life Programme

Home Address

Bakkerspas Road, Vaalwater, Limpopo, South Africa, Vaalwater, 0530, South Africa

Driver License

Code 08

Health

Excellent

Personal Information

  • ID Number: 861219 5049 089
  • Place of Birth: Welkom, South Africa
  • Date of Birth: 12/19/86
  • Gender: Male
  • Marital Status: Single

Home Address

Bakkerspas Road, Vaalwater, Limpopo, South Africa, Vaalwater, 0530, South Africa

Driver License

Code 08

Health

Excellent

Personal Information

  • ID Number: 861219 5049 089
  • Place of Birth: Welkom, South Africa
  • Date of Birth: 12/19/86
  • Gender: Male
  • Marital Status: Single

Home Address

Bakkerspas Road, Vaalwater, Limpopo, South Africa, Vaalwater, 0530, South Africa

Driver License

Code 08

Health

Excellent

Personal Information

  • ID Number: 861219 5049 089
  • Place of Birth: Welkom, South Africa
  • Date of Birth: 12/19/86
  • Gender: Male
  • Marital Status: Single

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Thomas WilsonOperations Manager