Management Couple / General Manager

Phoenix Recruitment; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 350,000 - 600,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading lodge seeks a Manager to oversee operations, ensuring exceptional guest experiences and team leadership. Responsibilities span guest relations, financial oversight, safety compliance, and sustainability efforts. Candidates should have a management background in luxury lodges, relevant certifications, and skills in guiding and operational management.

Benefits

Live-in accommodation

Meals provided on duty

Laundry services

Wi-Fi access

Provident Fund contribution

Participation in gratuity pool

6 weeks on, 2 weeks off work schedule

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3-5 years of management experience in a luxury lodge environment.
• Extensive knowledge of guiding, tracking, bush safety, and conservation practices.
• Strong operational skills in administration, housekeeping, and food & beverage management.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of lodge operations including guest relations and housekeeping.
• Lead and manage a diverse team, ensuring effective collaboration and staff training.
• Conduct guided game drives and bush walks ensuring guest safety and satisfaction.

Skills

Leadership

Organisational Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Communication Skills

Problem Solving

Guest Satisfaction Focus

Education

Matric certificate (Grade 12)

First aid certification

FGASA Full Trails Guide qualification

NQF Level 4 certification

DEAT and PDP certificates

Tools

Lodge reservation systems

Job description

Operational Management : Oversee and manage all aspects of lodge operations, including guest relations, housekeeping, maintenance, food and beverage, guiding, and administration. Ensure seamless coordination between departments to deliver consistent, high-quality service.

Team Leadership : Lead and manage a team comprising guides, trackers, chefs, waiters, barmen, housekeepers, scullers, maintenance staff, and department heads. Conduct training, performance reviews, and regular staff meetings to ensure all team members contribute effectively to the lodgeâs success.

Field Guiding (for one partner) : Conduct guided game drives and bush walks, delivering exceptional wildlife experiences for guests. Always ensure guest safety, adhering to FGASA and FGASA-endorsed guidelines. Maintain and care for the lodgeâs guiding equipment, vehicles, and other resources. Contribute to conservation initiatives and engage guests in learning about the environment.

Guest Experience : Deliver an outstanding level of service, ensuring all guest needs and expectations are met or exceeded. Respond promptly and professionally to guest feedback and special requests.

Financial and Administrative Oversight : Assist with managing budgets, control costs, and ensure accurate financial reporting where required. Oversee procurement, stock control, and inventory to minimise waste while maintaining quality.

Health and Safety Compliance : Ensure the lodge operates within all legal and company health, safety, and hygiene standards. Address any issues promptly to minimise operational disruptions and maintain guest safety.

Sustainability and Conservation : Promote sustainable practices across all areas of operation, reducing the lodgeâs environmental footprint. Support and participate in conservation initiatives and educate staff and guests about the importance of preserving the environment.

Requirements : For Both Partners :

Matric certificate (Grade 12).

First aid certification

A minimum of 3â5 years of management experience in a luxury lodge environment

Strong leadership and organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple departments and teams.

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, focused on guest satisfaction.

A hands-on, proactive approach to problem-solving and team support.

For One Partner (Trails Guide) :

FGASA Full Trails Guide qualification and NQF Level 4 certification.

DEAT and PDP certificates (essential).

Extensive knowledge of guiding, tracking, bush safety, and conservation practices.

For the Other Partner :

Strong operational skills, including experience in administration, housekeeping, and food and beverage management.

Financial management expertise, including budgeting, stock control, and reporting.

Knowledge of lodge reservation systems is advantageous.

Accommodation : Live-in position with private en-suite, partially furnished accommodation on-site.

Meals : Meals provided while on duty.

Additional Benefits : Includes laundry services and Wi-Fi access.

Provident Fund : A provident fund contribution is offered after three months of employment, contingent upon confirmation of a permanent contract.

Gratuities : Participation in the lodgeâs gratuity pool, distributed monthly amongst all employees (guides and trackers are in a separate pool).

Work Schedule : 6 weeks on, 2 weeks off cycle, with occasional flexibility required for operational purposes.

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