Head Guide

Bushwise; Hoedspruit; On-site; ZAR 480,000 - 640,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Market Related

Job summary

Big 5 Game Reserve is seeking an experienced Head Guide to lead the Guiding Department across our luxury lodges. You will mentor guiding teams, deliver exceptional safari experiences, and uphold safety, conservation and hospitality standards for guests.

The role requires strong leadership, a deep knowledge of South African wildlife and ecology, and a commitment to staff development and operational excellence to create unforgettable wildlife experiences.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years' guiding experience, including at least 2 years in a senior or leadership role.
• Registered DEAT Nature Site Guide with NQF 4 or higher.
• Valid PFTC, Advanced Rifle Handling (ARH), PDP and First Aid certification.
• Excellent knowledge of South African wildlife, ecology and conservation.

Responsibilities

• Guiding Team Leadership & People Management across lodges.
• Guest Experience & Safari Operations to deliver exceptional wildlife experiences.
• Safety, Compliance & Risk Management to uphold high safety standards.
• Conservation, Environmental Awareness & Wildlife Monitoring initiatives.
• Vehicle, Equipment & Asset Management for efficient operations.

Skills

Leadership

People management

Guest service

Communication

Fluent English

Education

NQF 4 or Higher

Registered DEAT Nature Site Guide

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Head Guide
Big 5 Game Reserve is looking for an experienced, passionate and inspiring Head Guide to lead our Guiding Department across our luxury lodges. This is an exciting opportunity for a dynamic leader who is committed to delivering exceptional safari experiences, mentoring and developing guiding teams, and upholding the highest standards of safety, conservation and hospitality. The successful candidate will play a key role in driving operational excellence while creating unforgettable wildlife experiences for our guests.

Key Areas of Responsibilities:

• Guiding Team Leadership & People Management
• Guest Experience & Safari Operations
• Safety, Compliance & Risk Management
• Conservation, Environmental Awareness & Wildlife Monitoring
• Vehicle, Equipment & Asset Management
• Guide Training & Professional Development
• Budget & Cost Management
• Operational Reporting & Departmental Coordination

Requirements

Minimum Requirements:

• NQF 4 or Higher
• Registered DEAT Nature Site Guide.
• Valid PFTC, Advanced Rifle Handling (ARH), PDP and First Aid certification.
• Minimum 5 years' guiding experience, including at least 2 years in a senior or leadership role.
• Proven experience leading and developing guiding teams.
• Excellent knowledge of South African wildlife, ecology and conservation.
• Strong guest service, leadership and communication skills.
• Computer literacy (MS Office).
• Fluent in English.

Benefits

Market Related