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Tour manager : Salary and conditions

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Case studies

  • Most tour managers are freelance and work on short-term contracts, usually lasting the whole summer season, although it is possible to work all year round, particularly in mainland Europe and Asia.
  • Tour managers may have an alternative source of income during the winter months or they may maintain a full-time working career, such as by leading local guided tours or teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL).
  • Tour managers involved in the planning and organisation of tours or special interest holidays may be employed continuously, especially with large tour operators.
  • For tour managers who do find full-time employment, typical starting salaries are £15,000 - £20,000 plus board and lodging when on tour.
  • Salary levels with three to five years' experience: £25,000 - £30,000.
  • Typical salary at senior levels: £30,000+, though for tour managers with extensive experience, salaries may be higher.
  • Pay is usually calculated per day, with rates and expenses varying between companies.
  • Salary may be enhanced by commission and tips, the amount will depend on the clients and the tour. Industry conditions also have an impact on salary levels.
  • Working hours may start from early morning until late in the evening, including weekends, and as long as required in crises.
  • Work is contracted out seasonally and tour managers may take on other work to boost income. There is less work for tour managers during the winter than for those wanting to work on summer tours.
  • The nature of the work means that tour managers are often working and living out of a suitcase, with frequent moves and without an office base.
  • Self-employment/freelance work is commonly possible. Most tour managers are self-employed.
  • Jobs are available in restricted locations. Work may be at a variety of locations in the UK and frequently overseas. Opportunities to go to long-haul destinations are limited.
  • The work is often without supervision and there is usually considerable contact with clients.
  • Job levels are affected by the political and economic climate in the UK and overseas.
  • Tour managers need to be physically fit to deal with the frequent long hours of work and the occasional need for a lot of walking, as well as to help less able passengers with luggage.
  • Tour managers are always on show during a tour so your appearance and clothing must be smart and behaviour exemplary. Most tour managers are required to wear a uniform.
  • The amount of free time available and opportunities to socialise vary, but this can be a very rewarding job balanced with the demands of working with people in variable circumstances.
  • Periods of time away from home may have an impact on your personal life.
  • Travel within a working day, absence from home overnight and overseas work and travel are all part and parcel of the job.
 
AGCAS
Written by AGCAS editors
Date: 
March 2011
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