Operations Manager

Summary Castaway Tours is looking for a disciplined, results-driven Operations Manager to lead day-to-day execution across our island basecamps and expedition operations in El Nido, Palawan. This role is hands-on, field-based, and critical to maintaining the signature Castaway experience—seamless, high-energy, and adventure-ready. You’ll be the commanding force on the ground, ensuring operational readiness, crew performance, and guest satisfaction—all while upholding safety, structure, and the distinct Castaway vibe. This is not a remote management role—it’s a boots-in-the-sand leadership position for someone who can enforce standards, solve problems in real-time, and lead with clarity and authority . Key Responsibilities Basecamp & Expedition Readiness Oversee daily operations across all Castaway basecamps to ensure they are consistently clean, equipped, and guest-ready Supervise caretakers and logistics teams in managing supplies, equipment, and camp conditions Monitor the condition of all camp infrastructure and assets; coordinate repairs and replacements proactively Team Leadership & Tour Support Supervise, coach, and enforce discipline among tour guides, boat crew, and basecamp staff Ensure all team members adhere to Castaway’s safety protocols, service standards, and code of conduct Provide hands-on leadership during expedition days, offering real-time problem-solving and support Staff Development & Scheduling Support recruitment, onboarding, and continuous training of expedition staff Create and enforce weekly rosters, task assignments, and shift coverage plans Build a strong performance culture with clear expectations and regular feedback Guest Experience Management Serve as the primary point of escalation for guest issues during expeditions Monitor health, safety, cleanliness, and overall guest satisfaction across camps and tour sites Uphold Castaway’s energy and atmosphere while maintaining a professional and efficient service standard Inventory & Logistics Track inventory of all consumables, gear, and camp essentials across all locations Coordinate purchasing and restocking with internal teams and local suppliers Maintain detailed logs of usage, waste, and inventory turnover; report shortages promptly Reporting & Operational Improvements Submit regular operational reports to executive management covering team performance, camp conditions, incidents, and guest feedback Collaborate on continuous improvement initiatives based on operational data and guest insights Support the implementation of scalable systems and processes across all Castaway operations Qualifications 3–5 years experience in a leadership or supervisory role in tourism, hospitality, logistics, or outdoor expedition operations Strong leadership style with proven ability to manage teams in high-pressure or remote environments Excellent problem-solving, conflict resolution, and real-time decision-making skills Strong communication and organizational abilities Comfortable working irregular hours, including early mornings, weekends, and holidays Physically fit and mentally sharp — able to thrive in tropical conditions and field-based environments Certified First Aider or willing to be certified Must be willing to relocate full-time to El Nido Perks & Benefits Beachfront Living — Complimentary housing at or near basecamp in El Nido Adventure Built In — Frequent opportunities to join expeditions and explore new tour routes High-Impact Role — Be a key player in a startup environment where your leadership truly shapes the brand Fast-Track Career Growth — Gain executive-level visibility and grow with the company Island Life Culture — Work with a passionate, tight-knit crew in a breathtaking environment Make It Your Mission — Help deliver unforgettable experiences to global travelers while building something exceptional from the ground up This Role Is For You If You’re not here for a vacation—you’re here to build structure , enforce excellence , and run a tight ship . You’re firm but fair, detail-obsessed, and at your best when leading a crew under the sun, stars, and salt air. If you believe world-class guest experiences start with well-run operations, we want you on our team. #J-18808-Ljbffr