Manager: Bids Development

The Gauteng Tourism Authority is seeking a highly competent Manager for Bids Development to drive the implementation of its Convention, Events and Business Bureau strategy. This permanent senior management role centres on positioning Gauteng as a premier destination for business events by researching, identifying, developing and securing high-value conventions and business events. The successful candidate will focus on generating and converting leads into secured, high-yield MICE events — meetings, conventions, incentives and exhibitions — that align with the province's key high-growth sector priorities.

The role carries a broad strategic and operational mandate. The Manager will develop, implement and manage the Gauteng Bidding strategy, identify and prioritise bid opportunities, and establish a qualification criteria framework to assess feasibility and impact. Stakeholder engagement is central, requiring strong institutional linkages and coordination across public and private sector partnerships, as well as the identification and management of trade and business platforms. The position also entails financial and corporate governance management, people management, and the delivery of accurate and timeous reporting to monthly, quarterly, board committee and special project structures. Performance monitoring and conversion are key, including post-show reporting and return on investment analysis for each secured event.

Candidates must hold a Bachelor's Degree at NQF Level 7 in Marketing, Tourism Management, Business Management, Events Management or a closely related field, with a postgraduate qualification in Tourism, Marketing, Events or Management serving as an advantage. A minimum of ten years' experience in the MICE, tourism, events, convention bureau, destination marketing or related environment is required, including at least five years at management level leading teams, projects or programmes.

The ideal candidate will bring deep knowledge of the MICE industry, the business events association market, and the broader tourism sector spanning business, trade and leisure. Familiarity with the business events bidding, hosting and decision-making processes is essential, along with experience working with venues, professional conference organisers, incentive houses, federations, associations, destination management companies and exhibition management companies. Exceptional communication, presentation and negotiation skills are required, as is knowledge of the Public Finance Management Act, national, provincial and local government structures, intergovernmental relations systems, and economic development strategies. Strong project management, coordination, business management, computer literacy, liaison and report writing skills complete the profile.

The GTA is an equal opportunities employer and encourages previously disadvantaged individuals and people with disabilities to apply. Successful candidates will undergo a full background check and a competency assessment. Applications must be submitted by email to the named HR contact before the closing date, accompanied by a detailed CV, a cover letter highlighting relevant experience, and certified copies of qualifications dated not older than three months. Applicants who do not receive feedback within thirty days of the closing date should regard their application as unsuccessful. This is an all-inclusive, permanent package graded at a senior level on the Haygroup salary scale.