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.