Luxury Safari Lodge: Head of Guest Experience & Ops

Craven Cottage CC; Limpopo; On-site; ZAR 500,000 - 800,000; Full time

Job summary

Craven Cottage CC in Limpopo province seeks a dynamic Lodge Operations Manager to oversee guest experience from arrival to departure, lead a high-end safari lodge team and coordinate F&B around game drives.

You will manage budgets, drive safety, supervise housekeeping, maintenance and service standards, and ensure discreet handling of guest issues while delivering unforgettable stays. This role requires hands-on leadership in a luxury setting.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 required and a formal hospitality qualification.
• 3+ years proven leadership in senior duty management or luxury hospitality.
• Experience in a luxury safari lodge or tented camp essential.
• Ability to deliver personalised service and discreetly handle sensitive guest complaints.
• Experience coordinating Housekeeping, Maintenance and Food & Beverage operations.
• Strong administrative and reporting skills, including Opera.
• Budget monitoring, cost control, purchasing, stocktakes and variances.
• Valid driver’s licence and willingness to work extended hours.

Responsibilities

• Oversee guest experience from arrival to departure, ensuring attentive and personalised service.
• Coordinate special occasions, private dining and guest requests while protecting privacy.
• Resolve sensitive complaints within delegated authority and follow through on actions.
• Set operational priorities, conduct duty briefings and maintain handovers.
• Coach employees, reinforce service standards and address performance or conduct concerns.
• Inspect suites, private decks, pools, and public areas for readiness and presentation.
• Prioritise maintenance concerns by safety and impact, ensuring corrective work is completed.
• Lead restaurant and private dining service around game drives, monitor quality and dietary needs.
• Oversee stock ordering, variances, budgets, payroll support, and weekly risk reports.
• Act as senior operational contact in the Resident Manager’s absence; coordinate movements with guiding team.
• Maintain safety, emergency procedures, and wildlife safety awareness.

Skills

Leadership experience

Guest service excellence

Budget awareness

Operational leadership

Staff coaching

Education

Grade 12

Formal hospitality qualification

Tools

Opera

Job description

Craven Cottage CC in Limpopo province seeks a dynamic Lodge Operations Manager to oversee guest experience from arrival to departure, lead a high-end safari lodge team and coordinate F&B around game drives.

You will manage budgets, drive safety, supervise housekeeping, maintenance and service standards, and ensure discreet handling of guest issues while delivering unforgettable stays. This role requires hands-on leadership in a luxury setting.