Frequent Asked Questions - Tour Manager

What are the benefits of working as a Tour Manager?

  • The opportunity to travel and experience worldwide cultures.
  • Being able to change career particularly after taking redundancy or retirement.
  • Flexible work to suit personal lifestyle and the opportunity to develop qualities and skills not used in previous employment.
  • Making new friends and associates.
  • To enjoy good remuneration.

What is the main role of a Tour Manager?

  • To make sure a tour runs smoothly.
  • Escorting tourists from any given departure point and returning back to the same point at the end of a tour.
  • Enjoying all the benefits of a tour whist responsibly managing the tour and its itinerary.

What is the working relationship between the Tour Operator and Tour Manager?

  • Tour Managers are self-employed and are offered work all year round on a contractual basis.

What would a Tour Manager be expected to earn?

  • On a three day weekend tour, £150 - £400.
  • On a typical two-week tour to Canada, a Tour Manager would expect to earn approximately £1,500 - £1,750, made up of daily fees, subsistence, travel expenses, commission from optionals and gratuities received.

What types of tour are available?

  • Short breaks – in the UK or Europe
  • Longer tours into Europe and Worldwide.
  • Speciality tours such as cultural, gardening, cricket, rugby, tennis, football, walking, music, and motor racing plus many more.

What sort of transport would be involved in a tour?

  • It could be by coach, train, cruise ship, aircraft or riverboat.

What age do I need to be?

  • There are no age limits.

Do I need a language?

  • It is advantageous to have a second language but not a necessity.

What are the main qualities I require to become a Tour Manager?

  • You need to be personable
  • Organised
  • Energetic
  • Tactful
  • Calm
  • Empathetic
  • Able to solve problems

How can I be competent?

  • You need to be numerate, literate and able to communicate well.

What are the duties involved?

  • Working with Coach Drivers and other Tour Managers
  • Confirming hotels, coaches, flights, excursions and all services within a tour
  • Checking pre-tour paperwork
  • Keeping tour records and making post tour returns
  • Keeping to the tour itinerary
  • Maintaining good customer care
  • Upholding the reputation of the Tour Operator