Mark Smith Email & Phone Number

Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa

Cape Town Area, South Africa

Drawing on 11 years experience in the tourism industry, I engage and consult with people from all over the world, creating and selling tailor-made African itineraries, with a focus on safaris.

Johannesburg

Phinda Private Game Reserve

Over the past 6 and a half years I have worked at Phinda Mountain, Rock, Zuka, Forest, Vlei Lodges, as well as being based at the exclusive Homestead Lodge for the past 3 and a half years. During this period I have had exposure to many local, but mainly international guests, who have been my responsibility to interact with, entertain and guide on game drives, and walks. For 2 years and a half years I was the Head Ranger at Phinda Forest, Vlei and Homestead. This has entailed running and managing the ranger and tracker team (28 staff). I was responsible for the daily administration and management of the rangers and trackers; as well as the fleet of vehicles, managing budgets and purchasing of equipment necessary for this department. I also was responsible for the legalities of the teams.As a Head Ranger I would ensure that the team always strived for excellence, delivering unforgettable experiences for our guests. Any negative feedback received by guests, would be dealt with by myself. I like to lead by example, and in my 7 year guiding career, I constantly received top ratings in my feedback regarding the experience I gave to my guests. I also had a number of guests, both local, and international, return to Phinda and request me to be their guide. I remain in contact with many of my previous guests. My experience with andBeyond has allowed me to grow and develop a people-orientated skill set. I possess excellent client-relation skills, and am able to converse, and build relationships with people easily. My communication, both verbal and written, is excellent – as I had to converse and entertain people from all over the world. I work within teams extremely well, and have experience in managing a fairly large staff contingent. I have a competitive spirit, but also look to bring out the best of those around me. I am able to adapt well, and quickly to varying situations, particularly under challenging circumstances.

Bachelor’S Degree, Bsc Environmental And Geographical Science, Honours In Disaster Risk Science, Honours

Activities and Societies: Internal Social League Rugby

High School, 12

Activities and Societies: 12 Club; Academic Honours; Chairman of Darwinian Society; Secretary of Interact Club; Cricket; Rugby; Waterpolo