How Anni du Plessis leads DropInn’s short term rental operation in Ballito

Anni du Plessis is the head of DropInn's short-term rental operation in Ballito, South Africa. She manages a team of 11 people who handle around 550 check-ins per month. Their duties include pricing, bookings, housekeeping, maintenance, quality checks, guest communication and liaising with property owners. Du Plessis, who comes from a financial background, says her accounting experience is invaluable in understanding both the commercial and personal aspects of the business.

She believes this background helps her in pricing, understanding guest expectations and maintaining the overall operation. Despite her age and gender sometimes affecting how her authority is perceived, Du Plessis emphasizes the importance of thorough preparation and accurate work. The team must constantly adapt to changing guest expectations, particularly because Ballito is a popular tourist destination.

They face seasonal demand fluctuations and must ensure that apartments are ready for guests, with all appliances and systems functioning properly. A significant challenge came during the launch of Ballito Life, a new estate, where the team had to manage the opening of about 30 apartments while construction work continued around them.

Despite these hurdles, DropInn achieved a five-star guest rating on Airbnb. Du Plessis also addresses the balance between the needs of permanent residents and short-stay guests, particularly regarding noise and parking. She emphasizes the importance of clear communication and setting expectations early to maintain a harmonious environment.

Her success in both accounting and hospitality underscores her commitment to building a long-term career in the industry, focusing on delivering high-quality service and maintaining consistency.