Zmo 19842 - Operations Manager (Sabi Sands)

HotelJobs; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Live-in accommodation

Monthly food allowance

Medical aid with 50% company admission

Job summary

HotelJobs is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee a 5-star safari lodge complex at the edge of a national park in South Africa. You will lead multiple departments, uphold luxury standards, and ensure safe, seamless guest experiences for an international clientele.

You bring at least 3 years in senior hospitality management, a hospitality qualification, strong budgeting, cost control and people skills, plus a hands-on, proactive approach.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years' experience in a senior operational or management role in hospitality, preferably at a 5-star safari lodge, with responsibility for overseeing multiple departments
• A relevant qualification in Hospitality Management (advantageous)
• Proven experience in staff management and development, operational planning, budgeting and cost control
• Proven track record of delivering service excellence and developing 5-star service standards
• Experience managing projects and coordinating operational improvements
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with senior management and HODs
• Sound understanding of Health & Safety requirements
• Valid driver's license and own vehicle (advantageous)

Responsibilities

• Provide effective leadership, guidance and support to all operational departments
• Drive and uphold 5-star standards across every aspect of the guest journey, supporting HODs and their teams to deliver consistently
• Monitor guest feedback and address concerns together with HODs
• Identify opportunities to improve systems, processes and overall operational performance
• Monitor departmental expenditure against budgets and targets, and identify cost-control opportunities
• Assist with the preparation and management of departmental budgets
• Ensure effective management of resources, equipment and assets
• Ensure that facilities, vehicles and equipment are maintained to the highest standard so the lodges operate safely and seamlessly
• Take overall responsibility for Health & Safety across the property, including compliance with occupational H&S legislation and statutory requirements
• Conduct Health & Safety inspections and risk assessments
• Provide leave cover for the Deputy General Manager

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Cost control

Staff management

Health & Safety

Operational planning

Communication

Education

Hospitality Management qualification

Tools

Sage X3

HMS Infor

Job description

Employer Description

5-Star Luxury Lodge

Job Description

Our client is seeking an experienced and hands-on Operations Manager to oversee the day-to-day running of a 5-star safari destination on the edge of a world-renowned national park. The property comprises 2 distinct lodges plus an exclusive-use private residence, welcoming a primarily international clientele. The ideal candidate combines operational rigor with warmth, energy and a genuine sense of fun. A hands-on approach is expected of every team member.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide effective leadership, guidance and support to all operational departments
• Drive and uphold 5-star standards across every aspect of the guest journey, supporting HODs and their teams to deliver consistently
• Monitor guest feedback and address concerns together with HODs
• Identify opportunities to improve systems, processes and overall operational performance
• Monitor departmental expenditure against budgets and targets, and identify cost-control opportunities
• Assist with the preparation and management of departmental budgets
• Ensure effective management of resources, equipment and assets
• Ensure that facilities, vehicles and equipment are maintained to the highest standard so the lodges operate safely and seamlessly
• Take overall responsibility for Health & Safety across the property, including compliance with occupational H&S legislation and statutory requirements
• Conduct Health & Safety inspections and risk assessments
• Provide leave cover for the Deputy General Manager

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years' experience in a senior operational or management role in hospitality, preferably at a 5-star safari lodge, with responsibility for overseeing multiple departments
• A relevant qualification in Hospitality Management (advantageous)
• Proven experience in staff management and development, operational planning, budgeting and cost control
• Proven track record of delivering service excellence and developing 5-star service standards
• Experience managing projects and coordinating operational improvements
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with senior management and HODs
• Sound understanding of Health & Safety requirements
• Valid driver's license and own vehicle (advantageous)

Skills

• Extensive computer knowledge: Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint and internet (knowledge of Sage X3 and HMS Infor advantageous)
• Excellent spoken and written English
• Exceptional leadership and people management, with the ability to motivate teams
• Strong financial acumen and cost-consciousness
• Excellent organisational, problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to high standards
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and stay calm under pressure
• Highly presentable with excellent communication skills
• Hands-on; proactive and solution-oriented, with a positive and flexible attitude
• High level of accountability, integrity and ownership
• Cultural sensitivity and patience with colleagues
• Realistic expectations of bush life and willingness to work flexible hours
• A passion for hospitality and a sense of fun

Benefits

• Live-in; basic furnished accommodation
• Monthly food allowance, over and above salary
• Medical aid with 50% company contribution (after 3-month probation)
• Pension fund with 50% company contribution (after 3-month probation)