Dowayne Klaaasen
Dedicated and customer-focused hospitality professional with more than 12 years of experience
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About
Dedicated and customer-focused hospitality professional with more than 12 years of experience in front office operations (Opera Express), guest relations, administration, staff supervision, and training. Proven ability to manage reception teams, coordinate reservations, oversee daily hotel operations, and maintain exceptional service standards. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills with extensive experience in customer service, financial reporting, staff development, and operational administration.
Experience
Managing Director - Kunye Global Enterprises
(2024-01)
- Oversee overall business operations, strategy, and financial performance.
- Manage client relationships, supplier negotiations, and service delivery.
- Identify growth opportunities and implement business development initiatives.
- Supervise administrative, operational, and project activities.
Receptionist & Night Audit Reliever - The Winchester Boutique Hotel, Sea Point - Sea Point
(2024-07 - 2026-05)
- Welcomed guests and managed efficient check-ins and check-outs.
- Operated Opera Express reservation and property management systems.
- Processed payments, billing adjustments, and account reconciliations.
- Managed reservations and responded to guest enquiries professionally.
- Assisted with restaurant bookings and tour arrangements.
- Prepared daily operational and financial reports.
- Maintained supplier relationships and monitored operating costs.
- Resolved guest concerns promptly to ensure high satisfaction levels.
Front Desk Supervisor - The Commodore Hotel
(2013-01 - 2015-01)
- Supervised front office operations and reception staff.
- Managed staff scheduling, training, and performance evaluations.
- Coordinated VIP guest arrivals and personalized service requests.
- Resolved escalated guest complaints efficiently and professionally.
- Oversaw room allocations, reporting, and shift handovers.
- Managed billing, invoicing, cash balancing, and financial controls.
- Collaborated with housekeeping and maintenance departments.
- Promoted room upgrades and packages to drive revenue growth.
Receptionist - The Portswood Hotel
(2011-03 - 2013-01)
- Delivered professional front desk and guest service support.
- Managed reservations, billing, and payment processing.
- Handled switchboard operations and guest communications.
- Maintained filing systems and operational documentation.
- Coordinated restaurant bookings and tourism-related activities.
- Ordered stationery and managed office supplies.
- Assisted with staff administration and roster coordination.
- Prepared month-end revenue and financial reports.
Part-Time Facilitator - Bytes People Solutions
(2012-01 - 2016-12)
- Facilitated Microsoft Office training programmes (beginner to advanced).
- Delivered Excel Essentials Level 1 and Level 2 training.
- Provided practical computer skills training to diverse learner groups.
Part-Time Facilitator / Student Advisor (Contract) - CTD Skills Training Centre
(2010-03 - 2012-12)
- Facilitated Life Skills, Literacy, Basic Computing, and Time Management training.
- Conducted interview preparation and job-readiness workshops.
- Provided career guidance and academic support to learners.
- Performed general administrative duties including filing and correspondence.
Training Administrator / Facilitator - Institute of Business Management and Information Technology
(2008-02 - 2010-04)
- Supported planning and delivery of training programmes.
- Maintained training records and attendance registers.
- Coordinated venues, equipment, and learning materials.
- Liaised with trainers, suppliers, and participants.
- Managed student records and reporting requirements.
- Ensured compliance with organizational policies and procedures.
Administrator (Contract) - Khulanathi Operators Training Centre
(2007-01 - 2008-01)
- Managed telephone enquiries and front desk reception.
- Prepared reports, spreadsheets, presentations, and correspondence.
- Maintained filing systems and administrative records.
Education
Data Capturing & Information Technology - Information Technology - Cape Town International Institute of Professional Studies
Grade 12 - Bellville South High School