Front Office Manager

University of Fort Hare; Somerset West; On-site; ZAR 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A distinguished 5-star boutique Country House & Spa in Somerset West seeks an experienced Front Office Manager to oversee operations. The role demands leadership, operational excellence, and a service-driven approach, ensuring guests receive exceptional experiences. Ideal candidates will hold a hospitality diploma and have a minimum of 2 years in a similar luxury setting.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years' experience as a Front Office Manager in a luxury hotel.
• Proficient in English with excellent communication skills.
• Own transport and valid drivers’ licence.

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise the front desk team.
• Oversee efficient front office operations and guest satisfaction.
• Ensure compliance with departmental SOPs and hotel procedures.

Skills

Communication

Planning

Multitasking

Supervisory skills

Attention to detail

Education

Hospitality diploma or degree

Tools

MS Office

Front office systems

Hospitality CRM platforms

Protel

Job description

Somerset West: My client, a distinguished 5-star boutique Country House & Spa, is seeking an experienced and charismatic Front Office Manager to join its dynamic Team to oversee Front Office operations.

Purpose of the Role: The role calls for an entrepreneurial mindset and strong leadership to manage all front office functions, drive operational excellence, and ensure a consistently exceptional guest experience in line with the property’s refined hospitality standards.

Key Responsibilities Include but Are Not Limited To

• Lead and supervise the front desk team
• Train new team members and serve as technical support
• Oversee efficient and professional front office operations
• Maintain and train on departmental Standard Operating Procedures
• Ensure compliance with hotel policies and procedures
• Manage scheduling, workloads and master key control
• Address guest concerns promptly and courteously
• Monitor room status and maximise occupancy
• Analyse rate variances and revenue opportunities
• Coordinate closely with all operational departments
• Ensure a personalised and guest-focused service approach
• Conduct team meetings and performance check-ins
• Monitor and control departmental expenses
• Review and approve daily financial and operational reports
• Enforce cash handling and credit policies
• Compile and review front office activity and revenue reports
• Monitor KPIs such as occupancy and guest satisfaction
• Prepare reports for senior management as required
• Implement contingency plans for emergencies
• Handle unexpected situations with professionalism
• Drive continuous service improvements
• Keep abreast of industry trends and best practices
• Promote ongoing learning and development within the team

Criteria

• Hospitality diploma or degree
• Minimum 2 years' experience as a Front Office Manager in a luxury hotel or boutique property
• Proficiency in front office systems and hospitality CRM platforms
• Protel experience advantageous
• Strong supervisory and administrative capability
• Excellent communication, planning and multitasking skills
• Proficient in MS Office
• Exceptional attention to detail and ability to work under pressure
• Fluent in English with excellent written and verbal skills
• Professional, service-driven approach with proven team coordination experience
• Own transport and valid drivers’ licence

Note that consideration will only be given to applicants who have experience in an equal role in the hospitality industry and who are currently resident in the Western Cape Helderberg area, or those who are willing to relocate.