Lodge Manager – Private Game Reserve

RMV Solution; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 400,000 - 600,000; Full time

Job summary

A hospitality management company in Johannesburg is seeking an experienced Lodge Manager to lead operations at a luxury bush lodge. Responsibilities include managing daily operations, ensuring operational excellence, and enhancing guest satisfaction. The ideal candidate has over 5 years of experience in luxury lodge management, strong leadership skills, and a tertiary qualification in Hospitality. This role offers an opportunity to shape guest experiences and drive profitability.

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.
• Oversee daily lodge operations and develop SOPs.
• Drive revenue growth through sales and marketing.
• Ensure adherence to safety and environmental standards.

Skills

Leadership

Guest Service Excellence

Operational Management

Revenue Management

Compliance

Education

Tertiary qualification in Hospitality / Tourism (NQF 6)

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.