Lodge Manager

Bright Placements; Mpumalanga; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

An exciting opportunity awaits a Lodge Manager at a world-class 5-star game lodge. This role involves managing daily operations to ensure exceptional guest experiences, leading a multi-disciplinary team, and overseeing financial functions. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a passion for luxury hospitality, and a commitment to guest satisfaction. Join a dynamic environment where you can make a significant impact on the guest experience while enjoying the beauty of nature and wildlife. If you are ready to take on this challenge and thrive in a luxury safari setting, this position is for you.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of senior management experience in luxury hospitality.
• Strong leadership and communication skills essential for team development.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day lodge operations ensuring 5-star guest experience.
• Lead and mentor a diverse team, fostering service excellence.

Skills

Leadership Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Communication Skills

Financial Management

Guest Service

Team Development

Education

Experience in Luxury Hospitality

Tools

Nightsbridge

ResRequest

Job description

An exciting opportunity awaits an experienced and passionate Lodge Manager to join our clients world-class 5-star game lodge. Nestled in the heart of the wilderness, the lodge offers a luxury safari experience that blends outstanding service, fine dining, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in high-end lodge management, exceptional leadership skills, and a genuine passion for guest satisfaction, team development, and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage all day-to-day lodge operations to ensure an exceptional guest experience that reflects 5-star standards.
• Lead and mentor a multi-disciplinary team, fostering a culture of service excellence, accountability, and teamwork.
• Ensure smooth coordination between departments including front of house, kitchen, housekeeping, maintenance, and guiding teams.
• Uphold and improve the lodge’s reputation by ensuring service delivery consistently exceeds guest expectations.
• Oversee financial and administrative functions including budgeting, stock control, payroll oversight, procurement, and financial reporting.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, hygiene, and environmental regulations, maintaining a safe and sustainable working environment.
• Build strong relationships with both guests and staff, acting as the face of the lodge and ensuring personalized guest interaction and problem resolution.
• Work closely with ownership and head office on strategic planning, reporting, marketing initiatives, and operational improvements.

Requirements:

• Minimum 3-5 years of senior management experience in luxury hospitality, preferably within a 5-star game lodge or safari setting.
• Strong leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills with the ability to inspire, motivate, and develop a diverse team.
• A deep understanding of luxury guest service and the attention to detail required for a high-end lodge environment.
• Sound financial management skills including budgeting, reporting, and stock control.
• Knowledge of hospitality and lodge management systems (e.g., Nightsbridge, ResRequest, or similar platforms) is advantageous.
• Professional, well-presented, and able to manage guest expectations under pressure with grace and efficiency.
• A passion for nature, conservation, and the luxury safari lifestyle.
• Willingness to live on-site in a remote bush environment and work flexible hours, including weekends and public holidays.