SENIOR GAME FARM MANAGER

University of Fort Hare; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 620,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural university is seeking a Game Farm Manager in Rustenburg to oversee the management and growth of the game farm and lodge operations. This role requires a candidate with strong operational and management skills, capable of driving both wildlife and hospitality operations. The ideal candidate should possess relevant agricultural qualifications and at least three years of game farm experience. Responsibilities include staff management, ensuring high standards in hospitality, and implementing sustainable practices. This position may also accommodate a partner for lodge operations.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years’ previous Game Farm Management experience.
• Experience managing staff and farm operations.
• Must be trustworthy and responsible.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day management of the game farm.
• Manage the lodge and guest accommodation facilities.
• Oversee staff management, training, and motivation.

Skills

Management and leadership skills

Communication skills

Wildlife management

Operational capability

Business development mindset

Team management

Mechanically and maintenance orientated

Education

Agricultural Diploma/Degree or relevant qualification

Job description

Overview

Rustenburg – North West: Our client in the North West Province is seeking a strategic and commercially minded Game Farm Manager to take full responsibility for the overall management, performance, and future growth of the game farm and lodge operations. This senior leadership role requires an individual who combines strong operational capability with a business development mindset, able to drive both wildlife management and hospitality operations while identifying opportunities to expand and grow the business sustainably. The successful candidate will oversee all aspects of farm operations, conservation management, infrastructure, staff leadership, and lodge performance, while implementing strategic initiatives to enhance the property’s value and long-term profitability. The position would suit a hands-on leader with entrepreneurial vision, capable of building and scaling a successful game farm and hospitality operation. The successful candidate should demonstrate the ability to think strategically, manage teams effectively, and develop the farm into a well-established and commercially successful destination. There is also potential for a partner or couple arrangement, where the Game Farm Manager oversees the operational and conservation side of the business, while a partner could take responsibility for lodge administration, guest experience, reservations, marketing, and hospitality management. This opportunity is ideally suited to individuals who share an ownership mentality and long-term vision for growing and developing the operation to the next level.

Responsibilities

FARM & WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT

• Oversee the day-to-day management of the game farm
• Monitor and manage wildlife populations and habitat interaction
• Implement and manage bush encroachment control
• Manage erosion control measures
• Monitor and improve veld condition and grazing capacity
• Ensure sustainable wildlife and habitat management practices

LODGE & ACCOMMODATION MANAGEMENT

• Manage the lodge and guest accommodation facilities
• Ensure high standards of hospitality, maintenance, and guest experience
• Oversee lodge operations, bookings coordination, and housekeeping teams
• Ensure facilities are well maintained and operational

OPERATIONAL & BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

• Oversee staff management, training, and motivation
• Manage farm infrastructure, equipment, and maintenance
• Implement operational systems to ensure efficient farm and lodge operations
• Assist with budgeting, planning, and operational reporting
• Maintain strong communication with owners and stakeholders

Minimum Requirements

• Agricultural Diploma/Degree or relevant qualification
• Minimum 3 years’ previous Game Farm Management experience
• Strong management and leadership skills
• Experience managing staff and farm operations
• Computer literate
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Mechanically and maintenance orientated
• Valid driver’s license
• Must be trustworthy, responsible, and have a strong ownership mentality