Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to identify and appoint a qualified service provider to deliver comprehensive Corporate Travel Services to the Mandela Bay Development Agency (MBDA) and its managed facilities. The successful bidder will aim to maintain high traveler satisfaction levels, ensure value for money, and deliver services without degradation.

Scope

The scope of work includes providing travel management services across various categories such as:

• Domestic, regional, and international air travel
• Car rental (domestic)
• Shuttle services (domestic and international)
• Accommodation bookings (domestic, regional, international)
• Passenger rail bookings (regional and international)
• Logistical arrangements for conferences and events
• After-hours services and travel insurance
• Other related services including third-party fees, travel amendments, cancellations, and VIP/Executive services

The contract duration is twelve (12) months with options for renewal for two additional twelve (12) month periods at MBDA's discretion.

Technical Requirements

The bidder must demonstrate:

• Relevant experience in providing corporate travel services, supported by reference letters and detailed project descriptions
• Proposed on-site team structure and back-office support model, including an experienced account manager and travel consultants
• Experience of more than 5 years as a Senior Travel Consultant and relevant qualifications (NQF Level 6 or higher in Business Administration, Travel & Tourism Management, or Hospitality Management)
• Capacity to handle bookings for domestic and international flights, accommodation, car rentals, travel insurance, and conference logistics
• Compliance with all applicable legislation, including visa facilitation, point-to-point transfers, third-party liaison, and travel risk management
• Provision of value-added services such as SMS notifications, government rates, billing reports, traveler profile management, and emergency services
• Adherence to MBDA’s Travel and Subsistence policy and National Treasury Cost Containment Guidelines

Skills Requirements

The bidder must possess:

• Proven expertise in corporate travel management, including handling complex logistics and emergency arrangements
• Strong organizational and support structure, with qualified personnel experienced in international travel management
• Ability to provide comprehensive reports and manage traveler profiles effectively
• Knowledge of legislative and regulatory frameworks relevant to travel services in South Africa
• Capability to deliver value-added services such as VIP/Executive travel, health warnings, weather forecasts, and global travel risk management
• Experience with cost containment and negotiation of preferential rates with airlines, hotels, and car rental companies