General Manager

Bright Placements; Oos-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 800,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading hospitality company is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee multiple lodges. The role involves operational management, financial oversight, team leadership, and ensuring high standards of guest experience. Ideal candidates will have over 8 years of experience in the industry, with a strong focus on budget management and guest satisfaction.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in the lodge or hotel industry.
• Prior experience managing multiple lodges or units.
• Strong understanding of budgeting and cost control.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of multiple lodges.
• Develop and manage lodge-specific budgets.
• Maintain high level of guest satisfaction across lodges.

Skills

Leadership

Interpersonal Skills

Team Building

Budgeting

Cost Control

Operational Procedures

Communication

Education

Diploma or degree in Hospitality Management

Degree in Business Administration

Job description

Send an email about this job to a friend or to yourself.

Key Responsibilities and Duties

1. Operational Management
   • 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.
2. 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.
3. Team Leadership & Human Resources
   • 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.).
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.

Qualifications & Experience

Minimum Requirements

• 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 remote 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.

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.

Soft Skills Required

• 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.