Hospitality jobs in South Africa

The Opportunity

With the founder and current Managing Director planning to retire within the next 12–14 months, we are seeking a Managing Director (Designate) to join the business under a structured succession plan. This is a rare opportunity to learn directly from the outgoing MD over the course of a full year, with a formal transition to leadership at the end of the period.

The incoming MD will be responsible for leading the company into its next phase of growth, with a sharp focus on sales and marketing, client relationship management, and strategic development. This is a hands-on leadership role that will require deep engagement with staff, clients, and the market.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and execute the company’s sales and marketing strategy, with a strong emphasis on B2B growth.
• Build, nurture, and expand long-term relationships with clients in the hospitality sector.
• Support the company’s transition from a founder-led business to a more corporate, structured leadership model.
• Work closely with the outgoing MD and executive team during the 12-month handover period.
• Manage high-level client accounts and ensure the retention and growth of key relationships.
• Collaborate with the Finance Director and Operations Director as part of the leadership team.
• Produce reports for the Chairman.
• Represent the company at industry-related Trade Shows.
• Maintain a strong on-site presence, demonstrating discipline, professionalism, and leadership by example.
• Travel nationally to visit clients and operations as required.

Candidate Profile

• Minimum 10 years' experience in supplying the hospitality industry, preferably in services (logistics, distribution, transport), though product experience will also be considered. Able to demonstrate knowledge of Who’s Who wrt the industry role players
• Demonstrated success in sales, marketing strategy, and account growth in a B2B environment.
• Proven ability to build and maintain long-term business relationships at a senior level.
• Experience in logistics, supply chain, or hospitality support services is strongly advantageous.
• Strong commercial acumen and leadership maturity.
• Hands-on, practical, and operationally involved leadership style — with a shift toward corporate governance.
• A formal degree in Business, Logistics, or Hospitality is advantageous.
• Ideally in their late 30s to early 40s, though this is a guideline rather than a strict requirement.
• Must be based in the Western Cape or willing to relocate, with daily on-site presence required.
• There are no sex, ethnicity or age restrictions on the candidate. However, they must be either a South African citizen or in possession of a long term work permit.

Compensation

• Compensation will be in line with industry standards and aligned with the candidate’s experience and capabilities.
• For the right individual, a profit share model linked to the achievement of key performance areas (KPAs) will be considered.
• A restraint of trade will be required to be signed when joining the company.

This Role Is For You If You Are:

• A self-starter, high-energy energy and enthusiastic individual with a high EQ (Emotional Quotient).
• A driven, commercially savvy leader ready to take on an MD role.
• Passionate about delivering excellent service in the hospitality and logistics sector.
• Enjoy being with people and able to socialise as part of your executive responsibility.
• Confident in your ability to lead a team through change and into a new growth phase.
• Ready to step into the shoes of a founder and help preserve, evolve, and expand a legacy.