Game Lodge Manager

Bushwise; Kimberley; On-site; ZAR 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading game lodge near Kimberley seeks a Lodge / Reserve Manager to oversee day-to-day operations and manage wildlife activities, ensuring premium guest experiences. Ideal candidates will have extensive bush experience, administrative skills, and certifications for leading activities in regulated environments.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years' experience in lodge or reserve management.
• Competence in hosting exclusive guest activities safely.
• Valid driver’s license and PrDp.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of lodge and game reserve.
• Guide select outdoor experiences for guests.
• Ensure compliance with conservation and regulatory requirements.
• Lead multidisciplinary team of lodge and field staff.

Skills

Wildlife operations

Veld management

Bushcraft

Administrative skills

Logistical skills

Staff management

Education

Firearm competency certification

Legally required certifications for field-based activities

Tools

Off-road vehicle

Job description

Our client, a well-established and exclusive game lodge located near Kimberley, is seeking an experienced Lodge / Reserve Manager with a strong background in reserve management, wildlife operations, and hosting discerning local and international guests. The ideal candidate will have deep bush experience, operational expertise, and the ability to manage both the hospitality and field-based aspects of a high-end wilderness property.

Oversee the full day-to-day operations of the lodge and game reserve, ensuring a seamless and premium guest experience.

Manage all aspects of the reserve, including infrastructure, roads, water systems, fencing, equipment, and veld maintenance.

Personally guide or host select outdoor experiences for guests, requiring expert wildlife knowledge, field skills, and discretion.

Ensure compliance with conservation policies, environmental legislation, and wildlife-related regulatory requirements.

Maintain accurate and detailed field records related to wildlife movements, guest activities, and reserve sustainability practices.

Lead and support a multidisciplinary team of lodge and field staff through structured training, clear communication, and accountability.

Control budgets, manage procurement, and oversee inventory for both lodge operations and reserve logistics.

Build strong relationships with guests, service providers, and regulatory authorities to support long-term sustainability and excellence.

Requirements

Minimum 5 years of proven experience in senior lodge or reserve management roles, ideally in a private game reserve setting.

Candidates must hold all legally required certifications and competencies to lead field-based guest activities in South Africa’s regulated wilderness areas

Firearm competency and relevant certifications

Extensive knowledge of wildlife operations, veld and land management, and bushcraft

Competence in hosting exclusive guest activities in remote environments, with emphasis on safety, professionalism, and confidentiality.

Excellent administrative, logistical, and staff management skills.

Valid driver’s license and PrDp with familiarity with off-road vehicle use and maintenance.