Cindy Gololo

Versatile and results-driven Operations Manager with 14+ years of progressive experience across hospitality, events, and conferencing environments. Proven expertise in leading multi-functional teams, implementing operational standards and SOPs, managing budgets, and consistently delivering exceptional guest and client experiences. Skilled at streamlining day-to-day operations, driving revenue growth, and maintaining compliance in high-volume, fast-paced venues.

A strategic thinker and hands-on leader who brings structure, service excellence, and a people-first approach to every environment.

Location Manager - Workshop17 Sandton

(2022-11)

• Direct full venue operations including day-to-day management, team coordination, scheduling, bookings, and facilities oversight.
• Lead and motivate a cross-functional operations and events team to consistently achieve 80–100% venue occupancy and exceed annual revenue targets.
• Develop, implement, and maintain operational standards, SOPs, and compliance frameworks to ensure service excellence across all departments.
• Manage end-to-end event operations, from initial client enquiry through to post-event reporting, ensuring seamless execution at every stage.
• Oversee operational budgets, cost control, and supplier contracts, identifying efficiencies and minimising organisational risk.
• Produce occupancy, revenue, and performance reports to inform strategic planning and senior management decisions.
• Spearhead Business Development and Facilities Management functions, optimising space utilisation and driving sustainable growth.

Community & Events Coordinator - Workshop17 Sandton

(2022-01 - 2022-10)

• Planned, coordinated, and delivered corporate events, conferences, markets, and private functions end-to-end, achieving record event revenues.
• Managed client relationships from enquiry to post-event evaluation, handling quotations, contracts, and special requests with precision.
• Collaborated across operational departments (catering, technical, facilities) to ensure flawless event execution and consistent service standards.
• Improved booking conversion rates and client response times through streamlined communication processes.
• Sourced and maintained vendor and supplier relationships, adding value to client offerings and community partnerships.

Guest Relations Officer - Houghton Hotel - Johannesburg

(2020-11 - 2021-10)

• Oversaw daily hotel operations, managing seamless guest check-in and check-out experiences for a 5-star clientele.
• Delivered premium VIP hospitality experiences, including hosting high-profile guests such as Steve Harvey.
• Ensured strict compliance with hospitality, health, and safety regulations across all operational touchpoints.

Events Coordinator - The Capital Hotel Sandton

(2019-04 - 2020-10)

• Planned and coordinated a broad portfolio of corporate conferences, exhibitions, banquets, and private functions.
• Managed the full client journey, from quotations and contracts through to on-the-day logistics and post-event evaluations.
• Partnered with catering, technical, and operations teams to deliver seamless, high-quality event experiences.
• Built a strong client base and reputation for reliability, generating consistent repeat business and referrals.

Progressive Hospitality Career - Various 4 & 5-Star Hotel Establishment

(2011 - 2019)

• Advanced from Receptionist through Front Office Supervisor to Reservations and Events Manager across multiple premium hotel environments, building deep, well-rounded expertise in hospitality operations, guest management, reservations systems, and team leadership.

Advanced Diploma - Management - Regent Business School (2025)

National Diploma - Tourism Management - Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria (2009)