Lodge Manager – Private Game Reserve

Findojobs South Africa; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 400,000 - 600,000; Full time

Job summary

A luxury hospitality provider seeks an experienced Lodge Manager in Gauteng, South Africa. The role involves leading operations to enhance guest experiences, manage daily activities, and ensure compliance with safety standards. Ideal candidates have extensive experience in hospitality management and a guest-centric approach. Offers a dynamic working environment and competitive compensation.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years managing a luxury game lodge or similar operation.
• 10+ years in operational management.
• Strong leadership skills and guest-centric mindset.

Responsibilities

• Lead and guide department heads, fostering engagement.
• Ensure lodge exceeds guest expectations and resolve issues promptly.
• Oversee daily operations and support all departments.
• Drive revenue growth through strategic marketing and promotions.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.

Skills

Leadership & Team Management

Guest Service & Satisfaction

Operational Efficiency

Revenue & Profitability

Compliance & Safety

Strategic Planning

Education

Tertiary qualification in Hospitality/Tourism

Job description

My client seeks an experienced Lodge Manager to lead the operations of a luxury bush lodge. This role is pivotal in delivering exceptional guest experiences, ensuring operational excellence, and driving profitability. The successful candidate will oversee daily operations, maximize revenue, and maintain the highest standards of service, safety, and compliance.

Key Areas:
1. Leadership & Team Management:
• Lead and guide department heads and staff, fostering engagement and a positive work environment.
• Conduct regular coaching, performance reviews, and motivate teams to deliver outstanding service.
2. Guest Service & Satisfaction:
• Ensure the lodge consistently exceeds guest expectations in line with brand standards.
• Monitor guest feedback, resolve issues promptly, and implement service improvement plans.
3. Operational Efficiency:
• Oversee daily lodge operations, coordinating front desk, housekeeping, F&B, maintenance, and other departments.
• Develop SOPs to enhance efficiency and consistency.
• Control costs to meet budgets while maximizing profitability.
4. Revenue & Profitability:
• Drive revenue growth through sales, marketing strategies, yield management, and seasonal promotions.
• Work with finance to manage budgets and forecasts.
5. Compliance & Safety:
• Ensure adherence to health, safety, environmental laws, and standards.
• Conduct staff training on safety protocols.
• Prepare for internal and external audits.
6. Strategy & Planning:
• Contribute to business planning and strategic initiatives alongside the Operations Director.
• Provide regular updates on operational performance and goals.

Requirements

Minimum Requirements:
• Matric / Grade 12, with a tertiary qualification in Hospitality/Tourism (NQF 6).
• 5+ years managing a luxury game lodge or similar operation.
• 10+ years in operational management.
• Guest-centric mindset, strategic thinker, and strong leadership skills.
• Commercial acumen and change management agility.