Operations Manager

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

Job summary

A luxury safari lodge is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead operations and oversee all departments. Responsibilities include ensuring exceptional guest experiences, financial management, and staff development. The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years in hospitality operations, preferably in luxury settings, along with strong leadership and financial skills. This full-time role offers competitive remuneration in an iconic African location.

Benefits

Competitive remuneration and benefits

Opportunities for professional growth

Supportive team environment

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years experience in hospitality operations management, preferably in luxury lodges or hotels.
• Proven leadership and team development skills.
• Strong financial acumen including budgeting, reporting and inventory control.

Responsibilities

• Support the General Manager in operations and assume responsibility in their absence.
• Ensure high standards of service and guest satisfaction.
• Manage budgets and financial reporting.

Skills

Hospitality operations management

Leadership and team development

Financial acumen

Organisational skills

Communication skills

Education

Relevant tertiary qualification in Hospitality Management

Job description

Operations Manager Luxury Safari Lodge Sabi Sands

Kendrick Recruitment is seeking a highly experienced and dynamic Operations Manager to join a luxury safari lodge in the iconic Sabi Sands. This role is a key leadership position responsible for overseeing all operational departments ensuring exceptional guest experiences and supporting the General Manager in delivering excellence across the lodge.

Package

• Salary: Negotiable depending on experience
• Live-in position

Key Responsibilities

• Operational Leadership & Departmental Oversight
• Support the General Manager in all aspects of operations and assume full responsibility in their absence
• Oversee guest-facing departments including Food & Beverage, Housekeeping, Guides, Maintenance and Reservations
• Ensure consistent high standards of service, safety and guest satisfaction
• Monitor daily operations and proactively resolve issues
• Support Heads of Department in achieving operational, financial and service objectives
• Financial Management & Performance
• Collaborate with the Financial Controller to manage budgets, monitor performance and implement cost-control measures
• Oversee inventory management, procurement and revenue generation activities
• Ensure accurate financial reporting and compliance with company policies
• Drive initiatives to maximise profitability while maintaining quality and guest experience
• Human Resources & Staff Development
• Coordinate recruitment, onboarding and training in partnership with HR
• Foster a positive, inclusive and high-performance culture
• Champion staff welfare, engagement and retention
• Oversee compliance with labour laws, disciplinary actions and HR policies
• Guest Experience & Service Excellence
• Act as a key point of contact for guest feedback and special requests
• Collaborate to enhance guest offerings, amenities and activities
• Provide hands‑on leadership to guest services teams to maintain the highest luxury standards
• Strategic Planning & Reporting
• Contribute to lodge strategic planning and execution
• Provide operational performance reports to senior management
• Implement and monitor Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) across departments
• Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement
• Work closely with the General Manager, Lodge Manager, Financial Controller, HR and support teams
• Facilitate effective interdepartmental communication
• Represent the lodge in meetings, audits and external engagements as required

Skills & Experience

• Minimum 5 years experience in hospitality operations management, preferably in luxury lodges or hotels
• Proven leadership and team development skills
• Strong financial acumen including budgeting, reporting and inventory control
• Excellent organisational, problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills
• Relevant tertiary qualification in Hospitality Management or related field preferred
• Knowledge of compliance, health & safety and labour regulations in hospitality

What We Offer

• The opportunity to lead operations in one of Africa's premier safari destinations
• A passionate and supportive team environment focused on excellence and conservation
• Competitive remuneration and benefits
• Opportunities for professional growth, training and career advancement
• The chance to make a meaningful impact on guest experiences and sustainable tourism

Employment Type

Full Time