General Manager

Bright Search Recruitment (Pty) Ltd; Makhanda; On-site; ZAR 500,000 - 800,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the hospitality sector seeks a General Manager to oversee operations across multiple lodges in a scenic location. The ideal candidate will lead a diverse team, ensuring exceptional guest experiences while maintaining financial efficiency. If you have substantial managerial experience in lodge or hotel settings, this role offers you the opportunity to make a significant impact in a dynamic environment focused on sustainability and community engagement.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience, with 3–5 years in senior management.
• Experience managing multiple lodges preferable.
• Valid driver's license; ability to travel or live on-site.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations ensuring alignment with standards.
• Develop budgets with finance; monitor financial KPIs.
• Maintain high level of guest satisfaction and service.

Skills

Leadership

Interpersonal Skills

Team Building

Budgeting

Operational Procedures

Education

Diploma or Degree in Hospitality Management, Tourism, or Business Administration

Tools

NightsBridge

Semper

RoomRaccoon

Panstrat

Job description

• Oversee the daily operations of multiple lodges, ensuring alignment with group-wide standards.
• Maintain operational efficiency across departments (front office, food & beverage, housekeeping, activities, maintenance).
• Conduct regular site visits and audits to monitor lodge performance and SOP compliance.

ð° Financial & Budget Control

• Develop and manage lodge-specific budgets in collaboration with finance.
• Monitor financial KPIs such as occupancy, revenue, food cost, labor cost, and profit margins.
• Approve supplier agreements and monitor procurement systems to ensure cost-effectiveness.
• Recruit, manage, and mentor lodge managers and department heads.
• Implement training and development plans for staff across all properties.
• Resolve staffing issues and support lodge HR processes (disciplinary hearings, labor law compliance, etc.).

â Guest Experience & Quality Control

• Maintain a high level of guest satisfaction and personalized service across lodges.
• Analyze guest feedback and implement improvements where necessary.
• Ensure consistency in service delivery, hospitality style, and property branding.

ð Reporting & Strategic Input

• Provide regular reports to the Operations Director / Owners regarding performance, challenges, and opportunities.
• Support long-term strategic planning including lodge upgrades, refurbishments, or expansion.
• Align each lodge’s objectives with group-wide goals.

ð Sustainability & Community Engagement

• Oversee eco-tourism and sustainability initiatives at each property.
• Support community involvement and upliftment programs tied to each lodge's area.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental laws.

POSITION INFO :

Qualifications & Experience

• Diploma or degree in Hospitality Management , Tourism, or Business Administration.
• 8+ years of experience in the lodge or hotel industry, with 3–5 years in a senior management role .
• Prior experience managing multiple lodges or units , preferably in or wilderness settings.
• Strong leadership, interpersonal, and team-building skills.
• Solid understanding of budgeting, cost control, and operational procedures .
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel or live on-site at various lodges as required.

ð Desirable / Advantageous

• Familiarity with luxury safari lodge operations (game drives, guides, conservation).
• Experience with lodge systems (e.g. NightsBridge, Semper, RoomRaccoon, Panstrat).
• Working knowledge of South African labor laws, health & safety, and liquor licensing.
• Passion for wildlife, conservation, and guest engagement.
• Calm, solution-oriented leadership under pressure.
• Hands-on and adaptable, especially in remote areas with limited resources.
• Professional presence and strong communication skills with guests and owners.
• High standards of integrity and confidentiality.

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