Resort Operations Lead – KwaZulu-Natal

Believe Resourcing; Durban; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading hospitality group is seeking a Resort Operations Lead in KwaZulu-Natal to oversee multiple properties, ensuring operational efficiency and exceptional guest experiences. The ideal candidate will have over 3 years of senior operations experience in hospitality, strong financial and F&B expertise, and the ability to mentor on-site teams. Frequent travel is required.

Qualifications

• 3+ years’ experience in a senior operations role within the hospitality sector.
• Proven track record managing a diverse portfolio of properties.
• Strong financial acumen with hands-on experience in budgets, revenue, and forecasting.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic and operational leadership across multiple properties.
• Oversee Food & Beverage, Housekeeping, Maintenance, Front Office, and Marketing.
• Monitor budgets and financial performance for cost optimisation.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Financial acumen

Food & Beverage expertise

Communication skills

Team building

Problem-solving

Job description

Resort Operations Lead – KwaZulu-Natal

Location: KwaZulu-Natal, South AfricaTravel: Extensive local travel required, including extended stays (1–3 months) at various resort properties.Type: Full-time, Senior LeadershipIndustry: Hospitality (Hotels, Lodges, Resorts)

Salary: Market-related

About the Role

A leading hospitality group is seeking a Resort Operations Lead to take ownership of a portfolio of lodges, hotels, and resorts. This pivotal role ensures all properties perform efficiently and profitably while delivering exceptional guest experiences. The successful candidate will be an experienced hospitality professional with strong financial acumen, in-depth F&B knowledge, and a flair for strategic leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic and operational leadership across multiple properties.

• Oversee all departments: Food & Beverage, Housekeeping, Maintenance, Front Office, and Marketing.

• Drive performance metrics, guest satisfaction, and brand consistency.

• Monitor budgets, manage financial performance, and lead cost optimisation initiatives.

• Oversee F&B operations, ensuring quality, innovation, and profitability.

• Conduct site visits, operational audits, and project oversight for refurbishments.

• Develop and implement marketing, sales, and pricing strategies.

• Mentor and lead on-site teams, promoting a high-performance culture.

• Ensure compliance with legal, safety, and environmental standards.

• Present operational reports to senior stakeholders and participate in board-level meetings.

Requirements

• 3+ years’ experience in a senior operations role within the hospitality sector.

• Proven track record in managing a diverse portfolio of properties.

• Extensive expertise in food & beverage, including menu planning and cost control.

• Strong financial acumen with hands-on experience in budgets, revenue, and forecasting.

• Willingness to travel frequently and reside onsite during peak operational periods.

• Must currently reside in or be willing to relocate to KwaZulu-Natal.

Key Competencies

• Strategic thinker and hands-on leader.

• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

• Inspirational team builder and mentor.

• Passionate about service excellence and guest experience.

• Strong decision-making and problem-solving capabilities.

• Agile, adaptable, and resilient in a dynamic environment.

This is a rare opportunity to join a growing, values-driven hospitality group and play a key role in shaping operational success across iconic properties.