Private Nature Reserve General Manager (Live-in Position)

Merand Corbett & Associates; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 660,000; Full time

Job summary

Merand Corbett & Associates is looking for a seasoned lodge manager to oversee daily operations of a reserve and lodge. You will lead a multidisciplinary team, ensure exceptional guest experiences, and manage procurement, maintenance and budgeting.

The role requires 5+ years of management in lodge settings, strong HR, financial, and operational skills, and a willingness to live on-site. Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities are essential.

Qualifications

• Diploma or degree in hospitality management or related field.
• Minimum 5 years' management experience in lodge/hospitality environment.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Experience with lodge operations, guest services, maintenance, and administration.
• HR practices knowledge including recruitment and performance management.
• Basic financial management, budgeting, payroll and reporting experience.
• Procurement and supplier management experience.
• Maintenance knowledge (plumbing, electrical, fencing, etc).
• Excellent communication, organisational and problem-solving skills.
• Valid driver’s licence and own transport; willingness to live on-site.

Responsibilities

• Oversee overall management and daily operations of the lodge and reserve.
• Lead, manage, train, and motivate staff including recruitment and performance management.
• Deliver exceptional guest experiences by managing the full guest journey and resolving queries.
• Coordinate procurement, stock control and inventory for efficiency.
• Maintain lodge facilities, buildings, vehicles, roads, fencing, gardens and water systems.
• Plan and supervise maintenance projects; manage external contractors when required.
• Manage bookings, administration, financial reporting, payroll and records.
• Monitor budgets and assist with financial planning and cost control.
• Conduct or oversee guided activities; promote knowledge of local environment and conservation.
• Build and maintain relationships with guests, suppliers, contractors and stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and operational standards.

Skills

Leadership

Staff development

Guest relations

Operations management

Vendor management

Communication

Problem-solving

Organisational skills

Flexible hours

Outdoor environment work

Education

Diploma or Degree in Hospitality Management, Tourism, Conservation, or a related field

Job description

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Oversee the overall management and daily operations of the reserve and lodge
• Lead, manage, train, and motivate staff while overseeing recruitment, performance management, and employee relations
• Deliver an exceptional guest experience by managing the full guest journey and resolving guest queries professionally
• Coordinate procurement, stock control, and inventory to ensure efficient operations
• Oversee the maintenance of lodge facilities, buildings, vehicles, roads, fencing, gardens, water systems, and reserve infrastructure
• Plan and supervise maintenance projects and manage external contractors where required
• Manage bookings, administration, financial reporting, payroll, and operational records
• Monitor budgets and assist with financial planning and cost control
• Conduct or oversee guided activities while promoting knowledge of the local environment, wildlife, and conservation
• Build and maintain positive relationships with guests, suppliers, contractors, and key stakeholders
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and operational standards across the reserve

REQUIREMENTS

• Diploma or Degree in Hospitality Management, Tourism, Conservation, or a related field
• Minimum 5 years' management experience within a lodge, hospitality, tourism, or nature reserve environment
• Strong leadership and people management skills
• Experience managing lodge operations, guest services, maintenance, and administration
• Experience with menu planning, food purchasing and stock control would be advantageous
• Sound knowledge of HR practices, including recruitment, performance management, and disciplinary procedures
• Basic financial management, budgeting, payroll, and reporting experience
• Experience with procurement, stock control, and supplier management
• Practical maintenance knowledge, including basic plumbing, electrical, mechanical, fencing, road maintenance, and general repairs
• Excellent communication, organisational, and problem-solving skills
• Valid driver's licence and own reliable transport (higher licence advantageous)
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and public holidays
• Physically fit and comfortable working in an outdoor environment
• Willing and able to live on-site (live-in position)

ONLY SHORTLISTED CANDIDATES WILL BE CONTACTED