Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Blantyre
- Category: Hospitality
- Closing Date: 2026-08-31
Key Responsibilities
- Check departures, arrivals, late checkouts and VIPs reports.
- Check mode of payment for every guest on departure.
- Check arrivals list to anticipate guest needs and ensure they are worked on before guest arrival.
- Prepare for group arrivals by preprinting registration cards and arranging a special checking in table.
- Handle guest complaints.
- Attend to guests timely.
Requirements
- Certificate in Front Office Operations from any institution recognized by NCHE.
- A full Malawi School Certificate of Education.
- 2-years’ experience in a similar position.
- Customer service skills with a cheerful disposition.
- Thorough and pay attention to detail.
- Patience and ability to remain calm in stressful situations.
- Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
- Positive attitude is a MUST.
How to Apply
Phone: 011 773 386 / 0885 996 521
Address: P O Box 376, BLANTYRE
About the Company
Sunbird Tourism plc is a Malawian hospitality company listed on the Malawi Stock Exchange, operating a portfolio of hotels and lodges across the country. Its properties include Sunbird Capital and Sunbird Lilongwe in Lilongwe, Sunbird Mount Soche in Blantyre, Sunbird Livingstonia Beach in Salima, and Sunbird Ku Chawe on Zomba Plateau. The company provides accommodation, conferencing, dining, and event services to business and leisure travellers in Malawi. As one of the country's best-known hotel operators, it plays a significant role in Malawi's tourism sector.
Malawi's leading hospitality group
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need to become a Receptionist at Sunbird Tourism plc in Malawi?
Most hospitality employers in Malawi look for an MSCE plus a certificate or diploma in Front Office Operations, Hospitality Management, or Tourism from institutions like Malawi Institute of Tourism (MIT) or a technical college. Strong spoken and written English, computer literacy, and customer service experience are usually essential. A diploma or prior hotel front desk experience can give you an advantage.
What are the typical day-to-day duties of a hotel receptionist?
You will handle guest check-ins and check-outs, answer phone calls and emails, manage reservations, respond to guest enquiries, and coordinate with housekeeping, food and beverage, and management. You will also process payments, maintain the front office logbook, and ensure the lobby area presents a professional image. Accuracy with records and a friendly, calm manner are key.
What work culture and expectations should I be aware of in Malawi's hospitality industry?
Hospitality employers in Malawi value punctuality, neat grooming, respectfulness, and the ability to remain courteous even under pressure. Shift work, including weekends and public holidays, is common since hotels operate around the clock. Teamwork across departments is highly emphasised, and professionalism in dealing with both local and international guests is expected.
What career growth can I expect as a receptionist?
Receptionists often progress to Senior Receptionist, Front Office Supervisor, Duty Manager, and eventually Front Office Manager or Rooms Division Manager roles. Gaining experience across other departments such as reservations or guest relations can speed up advancement. Pursuing further studies in hospitality management also strengthens promotion prospects within Malawi's growing tourism sector.
What benefits are typically offered to receptionists in Malawi?
Common benefits include paid annual leave, sick leave, medical aid or access to employer-supported health schemes, and contributions to a pension fund as required under Malawian labour law. Some hotels also provide staff meals, uniforms, and discounted accommodation at sister properties. Specific packages vary by employer and level of experience.
How do I apply for this role, and what do employers in Malawi look for?
Applications are typically submitted through the company's careers page or by email with a CV, cover letter, and copies of certificates, so follow the instructions in the job advert carefully. Employers look for excellent communication skills, presentability, computer skills, and genuine customer service passion. Preparing well for an interview that may include role-play scenarios of handling guests is highly recommended.