Lodge Manager & Field Guide Couple

Kendrick Recruitment; Thabazimbi; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A luxury lodge in Thabazimbi is seeking a Lodge Manager & Field Guide Couple to oversee operations and deliver exceptional guest experiences. The ideal candidates will have strong backgrounds in hospitality management and guiding, with essential qualifications in safety and guest engagement. This role combines leadership in luxury lodge operations with wildlife guiding expertise, offering a unique opportunity in an idyllic setting.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years in senior hospitality management roles.
• Proven track record of meeting targets.
• Previous experience as a Field Guide at a luxury safari lodge.

Responsibilities

• Manage lodge property operations and uphold brand standards.
• Conduct guided game drives and ecology lectures.
• Handle guest queries and complaints professionally.

Skills

Attention to detail

Guest-focused approach

Excellent communication skills

Time management

Problem-solving skills

Education

FGASA Nature Site Guide qualification

First Aid Level 1

Valid Code 08 driver’s licence

Tools

MS Office Suite

Job description

Lodge Manager & Field Guide Couple

Location: Thabazimbi (Luxury Lodge)

Salary: Negotiable, Dependent on Experience

A luxury lodge in Thabazimbi is seeking an experienced Lodge Manager & Field Guide Couple to join their team. This is a unique opportunity for a dynamic duo passionate about hospitality and wildlife guiding to manage and deliver exceptional guest experiences.

Lodge Manager Responsibilities:

• Full responsibility for lodge property operations
• Maintain and uphold the brand standards at property level
• Act as key ambassador of the brand including hosting site inspections and engaging with the market
• Ensure departmental management personnel meet hospitality industry standards
• Conduct weekly one-on-one meetings with Heads of Department
• Keep the property innovative and aligned with current hospitality trends
• Handle guest queries and complaints professionally and constructively
• Develop staff potential and facilitate ongoing training programmes
• Provide effective leadership and professional management
• Participate in operations forums to optimise teamwork and collaboration
• Implement performance management and succession planning processes
• Conduct regular performance appraisals and follow-up on development plans

Field Guide Responsibilities:

• Follow all procedures to maintain safe and excellent safari guest experiences
• Conduct guided game drives, bush walks, and ecological lectures in line with FGASA standards
• Be available for all game drive duties and emergencies as required
• Ensure proficient and safe weapon handling
• Support the lodge’s social media by contributing relevant wildlife and safari content
• Assist with emergency incident handling including medical, fire, or flood evacuations

Requirements & Qualifications:

Lodge Manager

• Minimum 3 years in senior hospitality management roles
• Proficient in MS Office Suite
• Proven track record of meeting targets
• Strong knowledge of international hospitality trends and product supply
• Valid Code 08 driver’s licence and reliable transport essential

Field Guide

• FGASA Nature Site Guide (NQF4) and Trails Guide qualification
• ARH and Rifle Proficiency, First Aid Level 1, Driver’s Licence, and Pr-DP
• Previous experience as a Field Guide at a luxury safari lodge
• Knowledge of company procedures and guiding standards

Key Attributes:

• Exceptional attention to detail
• Guest-focused approach, living the brand experience
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Positive, team-oriented attitude with emotional control
• Strong time management, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills
• Proactive, creative, adaptable, and flexible
• Ability to work accurately under pressure
• Patient, tolerant, and open to constructive feedback

If you are keen to apply for this role, please send your CV to Kendrick Recruitment.