Destination Stewardship Zanzibar

About Iberostar and the Role

Iberostar is a family-owned enterprise with 70 years in the tourism industry, operating over 100 establishments across 35 destinations in 13 countries, focusing on quality experiences for guests and employees alike. With a workforce of 35,000 spanning 95 nationalities, Iberostar values responsibility, transparency, humility, passion, and creativity. The company promotes employee growth, equity, and well-being under its Wave of Change initiative which drives responsible tourism.

Role Overview

The Destination Steward (Sustainability Alliances Responsible) for Tanzania, based in Zanzibar, is crucial in aligning Iberostar's sustainability ambitions with local priorities. This role involves active engagement with local and regional bodies to tackle tourism challenges, acting as a liaison between Iberostar and the destination. The incumbent will spearhead sustainable solutions, represent Iberostar in regional tourism discussions, and advocate policies that support both community welfare and Iberostar's 2030 sustainability agenda.

Key Responsibilities

• Represent Iberostar within Tanzanian tourism boards, associations, and sustainability organizations, promoting solutions for tourism and environmental issues.
• Lead and join multi-sector efforts addressing ecosystem degradation, water sustainability, community engagement, waste management, and other sustainability topics.
• Drive Iberostar’s role in public-private partnerships to bolster regional sustainability.
• Coordinate with other departments to adapt and enhance Iberostar’s sustainability measures, including waste, water, and ecosystem regeneration, to each operational area's needs.
• Forge and maintain partnerships with local governments, NGOs, businesses, and communities to support sustainable development.
• Engage in policymaking and discussions with authorities to shape sustainable tourism policies aligned with local goals.
• Work closely with local communities to incorporate their perspectives and promote inclusive, community-driven sustainable tourism solutions.
• Develop and implement strategic sustainability plans with clear actions and timelines in alignment with internal Agenda 2030 and stakeholder input.
• Organize training and awareness programs for hotel employees and collaborators on sustainability matters.

Preferred Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental sciences, economics, humanities, or related disciplines; a Master’s in sustainability or similar is advantageous.
• Minimum five years of relevant experience focusing on sustainability and institutional relations, ideally within Tanzanian tourism.
• Language proficiency in English and Swahili required; Spanish and Arabic are pluses.
• Experience with public-private partnerships and sustainability initiatives in tourism.
• Background in hotel operations is desirable.
• In-depth knowledge of local environmental policies, tourism challenges, and community dynamics.
• Willingness and ability to travel internationally.

Skills and Competencies

• Leadership in sustainability projects and stakeholder collaboration in tourism.
• Strong understanding of regional environmental, tourism, and socio-political contexts, with preference for candidates native to the region.
• Ability to influence sustainable tourism policies through government and public body engagement.
• Familiarity with hotel operations and sustainability challenges within the hotel sector.
• Innovative problem solving and anticipation of sustainability challenges.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to build enduring relationships with various stakeholders.
• Strategic thinker capable of aligning company goals with regional sustainability needs.
• Cultural competence to work effectively with diverse teams and respect different viewpoints.
• Well-connected within local associations and socio-political networks.
• Passionate and collaborative approach towards fostering sustainability innovation.

Benefits and Offer

• Permanent, full-time contract.
• Opportunities for professional growth through diverse projects.
• Supportive work environment dedicated to responsible tourism and people values.
• Access to the Iberostar Vitality community offering wellness activities.