Head Guide

Head Guide | Luxury Lodge | Kruger National Park

Salary: Negotiable Dependent on Experience

Kendrick Recruitment is currently seeking a highly experienced Head Guide for a luxury lodge and hotel group located in the iconic Kruger National Park.

The ideal candidate will be passionate about delivering exceptional safari experiences, a strong leader with a firm understanding of guiding standards, operations, guest care, and conservation practices.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Oversee, train, and monitor all Field Guide functions in accordance with FGASA and company standards.
2. Manage daily safari allocations, backup drive schedules, and standby duties.
3. Maintain legal compliance regarding firearms and ensure safe weapon handling across the department.
4. Lead all safari-related activities including guest safety briefings, game drives, interpretive bush walks, tracking, and ecological talks.
5. Host and engage with guests to enhance the overall experience.
6. Oversee vehicle maintenance and workshop operations.
7. Manage incident response and act as an emergency coordinator during medical, fire, or flood-related events.
8. Collaborate on lodge social media content, promoting wildlife and safari operations.
9. Chair departmental meetings and attend leadership forums.

Training, Development & Mentorship:

1. Mentor, develop, and manage Field Guides and trainees, including performance feedback and training plans.
2. Facilitate inter-property training and mentorship workshops across the property group.
3. Monitor and implement performance management, appraisals, and succession planning processes.
4. Identify and nurture potential talent for advancement within the company.

Conservation Involvement:

1. Assist with fieldwork, road maintenance, and habitat management.
2. Support fire management, including firefighting and controlled burns.
3. Ensure adherence to reserve and lease regulations.
4. Participate in ecological data gathering and interpretation.

Guest Relations & Service Delivery:

1. Communicate guest preferences and special requests effectively to management and relevant departments.
2. Collect and share valuable guest insights to personalize future experiences.
3. Respond promptly and professionally to guest complaints and feedback.

Minimum Requirements:

1. FGASA NQF4 and Lead Trails Guide Qualification (Essential).
2. ARH, Rifle Proficiency, First Aid Level 2, Valid Driver's License with PrDP.
3. Previous experience in a Head Guide or Assistant Head Guide role.
4. Strong knowledge of guiding protocols, lodge operations, budgeting, and departmental administration.
5. Familiarity with guiding compliance standards and procedures.

Key Attributes:

1. Exceptional attention to detail.
2. Strong leadership and people management skills.
3. Honest communicator with excellent verbal and written communication.
4. Highly organized with strong time management and problem-solving abilities.
5. Adaptable, professional, and calm under pressure.
6. Deep passion for guest engagement, wildlife, and conservation.
7. A proactive team player with integrity and initiative.

If you meet the above criteria and are ready to step into a leadership role in one of South Africa's most prestigious safari destinations, please send your CV to Kendrick Recruitment.