Lodge Manager

SUMMARY:
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POSITION INFO:

The Lodge is seeking a dynamic, hands-on Lodge Manager who thrives in both guest-facing and operational environments. This unique role blends the warmth and leadership of lodge management with the precision and accountability of administrative oversight.

If you’re a natural host with a head for numbers, a heart for hospitality, and the resilience to lead in a remote luxury setting, we’d love to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Management:
– Oversee daily lodge operations, ensuring seamless guest experiences and efficient team coordination
– Lead and mentor staff across departments, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability
– Maintain high standards of service, cleanliness, and safety throughout the lodge
– Accurately capture and manage guest reservations, ensuring all booking details are complete and correct while liaising remotely with the central reservations office in Johannesburg
– Build and maintain strong relationships with travel agents and tour operators to support repeat business and positive brand representation
– Oversee internal guest transfers and room allocations, ensuring smooth coordination and optimal guest experience
– Perform duty manager shifts, including hosting guests and supervising service teams to ensure seamless daily operations
– Drive on-site sales of beverages and curios, maintaining stock levels and promoting guest engagement
– Coordinate and execute bush experiences such as picnics, gin stops, and bespoke outdoor setups, tailored to guest preferences
– Demonstrate initiative and creativity in planning and delivering memorable moments for special occasions and celebrations

Administrative & Financial Management
– Manage lodge budgets, revenue tracking, and expense control to ensure financial sustainability
– Prepare and submit accurate daily, weekly, and monthly financial and performance reports
– Reconcile petty cash, credit card transactions, and supplier invoices, maintaining transparent records
– Monitor Property Management System (PMS) trial balances and resolve discrepancies promptly
– Support internal and external audits by ensuring compliance with financial controls and standard operating procedures
– Oversee inventory management and conduct regular stock takes across departments
– Investigate financial variances and implement proactive cost-control measures to optimize lodge operations

Guest Experience
– Personally welcome guests and ensure their stay exceeds expectations
– Handle guest feedback with professionalism and empathy
– Uphold confidentiality and protect guest and lodge property

Staff Leadership
– Lead recruitment, onboarding, and performance management of lodge and camp staff.
– Conduct training, appraisals, and disciplinary procedures in line with company policy.
– Foster a culture of excellence, respect, and continuous development.
– Build strong interdepartmental relationships to ensure operational effectiveness

Compliance & Sustainability
– Actively participates in the Health and Safety committee to uphold workplace standards.
– Well-versed in Employment Equity principles and reporting requirements.
– Demonstrates a solid understanding of labour law and confidently manages disciplinary procedures when required.
– Ensure adherence to SANParks regulations, environmental standards, and safety protocols.
– Maintain up-to-date licences and permits for camp operations and staff.
– Champion eco-conscious practices and community development initiatives.

Health & Safety
– Implement emergency procedures and ensure staff training and drills.
– Maintain compliance with OHS legislation and lodge standards.

Reporting & Communication
– Maintain clear communication channels with staff, guests, and senior leadership.
– Provide regular updates on lodge performance, guest feedback, and operational incidents.
– Support internal and external audits and ensure documentation accuracy.

Continuous Improvement
– Analyse feedback to identify areas for enhancement.
– Introduce innovative ideas aligned with the Lodge brand.

Minimum Experience & Requirements

• 3-5 years’ experience in luxury lodge or hospitality management, with strong administrative exposure
• Strong leadership, interpersonal, and crisis management skills.
• Excellent communication and financial acumen.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and Property Management Systems (e.g., Apex, Opera).
• Valid driver’s licence
• First aid training and knowledge are beneficial.
• Fluency in English; knowledge of Shangaan or other African languages is advantageous.
• Professional, detail-oriented, and guest-centric.
• Adaptable, resilient, and composed under pressure.
• Self-disciplined, punctual, and respectful.
• Passionate about hospitality, nature, and cultural engagement.
• Able to work independently and take full responsibility for tasks.
• Strong organisational skills and financial acumen.
• Warm and welcoming demeanor with a commitment to excellence.

Level

Management

Salary

The position is available to either a single candidate or a couple, provided one partner is a qualified Field Guide or Camp Manager.
– This is a live-in role, suitable for individuals or couples.
– Accommodation and meals are provided.
– Leave includes 7 consecutive days off per month and 21 consecutive days of annual leave.
– Applicants must supply contactable references from at least three previous managers.

A highly competitive, market-related package will be discussed during interviews or upon request.
The package includes a Provident fund of which the company contributes 5%.

Apply

Please submit your letter of motivation, qualifications and CVs by close of business on 25 September 2025.

Note: Candidates must be willing and able to travel to the Kruger National Park for interviews if required. Due to the lodge’s remote location, we are unable to accommodate candidates with pets or young children.