Management Couple

SUMMARY:
A luxury 5-star game lodge in Welgevonden Game Reserve seeks an experienced Management Couple to jointly oversee all lodge operations. The couple will ensure exceptional guest experiences, smooth daily operations, financial controls, staff leadership, and conservation-focused hospitality in line with 5-star standards.
Key Responsibilities (Shared Accountability):

• Overall lodge management and operational excellence
• Upholding 5-star service standards and guest satisfaction
• Staff leadership, training, discipline, and motivation
• Financial controls, budgeting, cost management, and reporting
• Health, safety, hygiene, and legal compliance
• Conservation ethics and reserve regulations compliance
• Acting as lodge ambassadors and primary guest hosts

• Hosting guests and ensuring world-class safari experiences
• Managing front-of-house departments (reception, guiding liaison, activities)
• Overseeing reservations, arrivals, departures, and guest communications
• Handling guest feedback, complaints, and special requests
• Coordinating game drives with guiding team
• Maintaining brand standards and lodge presentation
• Marketing support: social media content, guest reviews, lodge representation

• Managing housekeeping, maintenance, and lodge logistics
• Overseeing food & beverage operations with the Head Chef
• Stock control, ordering, supplier management, and cost control
• HR administration, staff rosters, contracts, leave, and payroll support
• Health & safety, hygiene, and staff accommodation standards
• Managing lodge infrastructure, vehicles, and assets
• Monthly reporting, budgets, and operational planning

• Recruitment, training, and performance management
• Creating a positive, professional team culture
• Managing disciplinary processes in line with South African labour law
• Ensuring staff welfare and accommodation standards

• Budget preparation and monitoring
• Cost control (F&B, housekeeping, maintenance, fuel)
• Stock takes and variance reporting
• Basic bookkeeping and invoice management

• Personalized service delivery
• Luxury presentation and attention to detail
• Problem resolution with discretion and professionalism
• Ensuring repeat business and positive online reviews

POSITION INFO:
Minimum Requirements:

• Proven experience as a Management Couple or senior lodge managers at a 5-star safari lodge
• Minimum 3–5 years luxury hospitality management experience
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Excellent financial and administrative skills
• Computer literacy (PMS, MS Office, reporting tools)
• Valid driver’s licenses (both partners)
• South African labour law knowledge (advantage)
• Ability to live and work in a remote environment

• Hospitality Management / Tourism qualifications
• FGASA (if involved in guiding coordination)
• Wine & beverage knowledge
• First Aid certification

• Live-in position (shared staff accommodation provided)
• Flexible working hours including weekends and public holidays
• Remote bush environment

• Competitive combined salary (based on experience)
• Accommodation and utilities included
• Meals on duty
• Uniform provided
• Work permit assistance (if applicable)
• Performance-based incentives (where applicable)