Lodge Manager

Bushwise; Pongola; On-site; ZAR 223,000 - 279,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-site management accommodation (all‑

Job summary

Bushwise is seeking a proactive Lodge Manager to oversee daily operations of an intimate bushveld lodge in KwaZulu-Natal. You will lead a small team to deliver warm hospitality, manage housekeeping, F&B, and maintenance, and coordinate game drives and activities with guides.

The role requires adaptability to remote bush life, strong administration, and hands-on involvement in all aspects of lodge life. Experience in hospitality management and a valid SA driver’s license are essential.

Qualifications

• 2–3 years of hospitality management experience in lodge or boutique hotel settings.
• Valid Code 08 (B) SA driver’s license with PrDP or ability to obtain one immediately.
• First Aid Level 1 certificate required; FGASA qualifications are advantageous but not mandatory.
• Strong admin and computer literacy, including MS Office and email.

Responsibilities

• Guest relations: welcome guests, provide lodge orientations, and be the main point of contact.
• Coordinate meals, bush dining experiences, and activities with guiding team to ensure guest satisfaction.
• Oversee front‑of‑house, housekeeping, F&B, and maintenance; supervise staff and manage rosters.
• Monitor stock, budgets, petty cash, and ensure safety, health, and wildlife protocols.

Skills

Administrative skills

Computer literacy

Interpersonal communication

English proficiency

Tools

MS Office

Property Management Systems

Job description

Pongola, South Africa | Posted on 11/12/2026

We are seeking an energetic, hands-on, and guest-focused Lodge Manager to oversee the daily operations of an intimate bushveld game lodge. The ideal candidate will lead a small, dedicated team to deliver warm South African hospitality, ensure seamless lodge maintenance, and create memorable wildlife experiences for local and international guests.

Because this is a remote bush location, the successful applicant must be adaptable, resourceful, and willing to get involved in every aspect of lodge life.

Key Responsibilities

Guest Relations & Experience

• Welcome guests warmly upon arrival, conduct lodge orientations, and serve as the primary point of contact throughout their stay.
• Host guests during meals, boma evenings, and bush dining experiences to ensure high levels of satisfaction.
• Handle guest inquiries, special requests, and feedback promptly and professionally.
• Coordinate game drives, bush walks, and external activities with the guiding team.

Operations & Housekeeping

• Oversee front-of-house, housekeeping, food and beverage, and general maintenance departments.
• Conduct daily inspections of guest suites, public areas, and safari vehicles to ensure spotless presentation and safety standards.
• Manage room allocations, reservations, check-ins, and check-outs using the lodge’s booking system.
• Supervise, train, and motivate lodge staff, including housekeepers, kitchen staff, general workers, and rangers.
• Compile weekly staff rosters, manage leave schedules, and oversee basic disciplinary procedures.
• Monitor stock levels for food, beverages, cleaning supplies, and lodge amenities, placing orders with suppliers in nearby towns.
• Manage petty cash, daily reconciliations, and monthly operational budgets to control costs and minimize waste.

Maintenance & Health and Safety

• Oversee preventative maintenance on lodge infrastructure, generators, solar systems, water pumps, and vehicles.
• Ensure strict compliance with health, hygiene, fire safety, and wildlife safety protocols across the property.

Requirements

Requirements & Qualifications

• Experience: Minimum of 2–3 years of experience in hospitality management, assistant lodge management, or a similar bushveld/boutique hotel environment.
• Driver’s License: Valid Code 08 (B) South African driver’s license with a valid PrDP (or willingness to obtain one immediately).
• Certifications: Valid First Aid Level 1 certificate is required. FGASA qualifications are advantageous but not mandatory.
• Skills: Strong administrative and computer literacy (MS Office, email, and basic Property Management Systems).
• Personal Attributes:
  • Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills in English (knowledge of an additional local language is a bonus).
  • Ability to live and work happily in a remote bush environment with limited town access.
  • Strong problem-solving skills, calm under pressure, and a proactive "can-do" attitude.
  • Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends, public holidays, and shifts around game drive times.

Benefits & Package

• Competitive salary of R20,000 – R25,000 per month based on experience.
• Comfortable on‑site management accommodation (utilities included).
• Meals provided while on duty.
• Standard leave cycle suitable for remote bush lodges (e.g., 21 days on, 7 days off, or similar agreed roster).