SUMMARY:

DEPUTY GENERAL MANAGER - MULTI FACETED ROLE | LUXURY SAFARI LODGE

POSITION INFO:
🌿 THE ROLE AT A GLANCE This is a hands-on leadership position with three key areas of responsibility: 🐘 Expert Field Guide Lead exceptional Big 5 game drives and walking safaris, while bringing the bush to life through engaging guest experiences. 🔧 Lodge Maintenance & Operations Oversee the maintenance function, operational efficiencies, energy usage and general upkeep of the lodge. ⭐ Hospitality Management Support the General Manager in delivering seamless five-star service, managing daily operations and maintaining exceptional guest relations. WHAT YOU'LL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR Delivering an outstanding guest journey from arrival through to departure Supporting the General Manager with daily operations, staff allocation, rostering and briefings Taking the operational lead when the General Manager is away Overseeing lodge maintenance and ensuring operational efficiency Managing operational equipment, stock and departmental orders Monitoring stock counts and maintaining accurate stock control Managing energy usage and the lodge's solar power plant Conducting Big 5 game drives and walking safaris Acting as Duty Ranger when required Hosting bush boma experiences and other guest activities Presenting engaging talks, snake demonstrations, bird walks and tree walks Taking responsibility for an allocated guiding vehicle Supporting game walks and guiding operations as required Assisting with general lodge operations and guest\/staff transportation Maintaining high standards across guest-facing and operational areas Mentoring, coaching and supporting team members Building strong relationships with guests and colleagues while consistently representing five-star service standards 🐾 WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR You will need to be an experienced hospitality professional with a genuine passion for wildlife, guiding and luxury guest experiences . Essential: Minimum 2 years' experience in a 5-star lodge environment Proven experience guiding Big 5 walking safaris within a Big 5 reserve Strong lodge maintenance and operational knowledge PrDP and Code 8 driver's licence Firearm competency for business purposes FGASA Advanced Rifle Handling (ARH) with current competency Valid First Aid Certificate - Level 2 or higher preferred NDT registered or CATHSSETA qualified Computer literate Advantageous: Trails Guide qualification accredited for Big 5 walking trails 🌟 YOUR PERSONALITY & APPROACH We are looking for someone who: Naturally puts the guest experience first Has the maturity and emotional intelligence to handle high-pressure situations professionally Takes ownership and follows through on commitments Is hands-on and confident across both hospitality and lodge operations Has excellent guest relations and communication skills Is a team player who can integrate seamlessly into an established lodge and guiding environment Has a positive, professional attitude and strong work ethic Is proactive and able to identify potential problems before they arise Is confident taking the lead and finding practical solutions Has a genuine passion for the bush and a desire to continually develop their guiding knowledge Can comfortably engage with guests on a broad range of topics beyond wildlife and guiding 🌍 THIS IS FOR YOU IF... You're not looking for a desk-bound management position. You're someone who enjoys being in the heart of lodge operations - whether that's hosting guests around the boma, leading a Big 5 walking safari, solving an operational challenge or ensuring the lodge is running seamlessly behind the scenes. If you have the guiding credentials, hospitality experience, maintenance know-how and leadership presence to make this unique role your own, we'd love to hear from you.