<p><strong>Key Responsibilities and Duties</strong></p><p><strong>Operational Management</strong></p><ul><li><p>Oversee the daily operations of multiple lodges, ensuring alignment with group-wide standards.</p></li><li><p>Maintain operational efficiency across departments (front office, food & beverage, housekeeping, activities, maintenance).</p></li><li><p>Conduct regular site visits and audits to monitor lodge performance and SOP compliance.</p></li></ul><p><strong>Financial & Budget Control</strong></p><ul><li><p>Develop and manage lodge-specific budgets in collaboration with finance.</p></li><li><p>Monitor financial KPIs such as occupancy, revenue, food cost, labor cost, and profit margins.</p></li><li><p>Approve supplier agreements and monitor procurement systems to ensure cost-effectiveness.</p></li></ul><p><strong>Team Leadership & Human Resources</strong></p><ul><li><p>Recruit, manage, and mentor lodge managers and department heads.</p></li><li><p>Implement training and development plans for staff across all properties.</p></li><li><p>Resolve staffing issues and support lodge HR processes (disciplinary hearings, labor law compliance, etc.).</p></li></ul><p><strong>Guest Experience & Quality Control</strong></p><ul><li><p>Maintain a high level of guest satisfaction and personalized service across lodges.</p></li><li><p>Analyze guest feedback and implement improvements where necessary.</p></li><li><p>Ensure consistency in service delivery, hospitality style, and property branding.</p></li></ul><p><strong>Reporting & Strategic Input</strong></p><ul><li><p>Provide regular reports to the Operations Director/Owners regarding performance, challenges, and opportunities.</p></li><li><p>Support long-term strategic planning including lodge upgrades, refurbishments, or expansion.</p></li><li><p>Align each lodges objectives with group-wide goals.</p></li></ul><p><strong>Sustainability & Community Engagement</strong></p><ul><li><p>Oversee eco-tourism and sustainability initiatives at each property.</p></li><li><p>Support community involvement and upliftment programs tied to each lodge's area.</p></li><li><p>Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental laws.</p></li></ul><hr><p><strong>Qualifications & Experience</strong></p><p><strong>Minimum Requirements</strong></p><ul><li><p>Diploma or degree in <strong>Hospitality Management</strong>, Tourism, or Business Administration.</p></li><li><p><strong>8+ years of experience</strong> in the lodge or hotel industry, with <strong>35 years in a senior management role</strong>.</p></li><li><p>Prior experience managing <strong>multiple lodges or units</strong>, preferably in remote or wilderness settings.</p></li><li><p>Strong leadership, interpersonal, and team-building skills.</p></li><li><p>Solid understanding of <strong>budgeting, cost control, and operational procedures</strong>.</p></li><li><p>Valid driver's license and ability to travel or live on-site at various lodges as required.</p></li></ul><p><strong>Desirable/Advantageous</strong></p><ul><li><p>Familiarity with luxury safari lodge operations (game drives, guides, conservation).</p></li><li><p>Experience with lodge systems (e.g. NightsBridge, Semper, RoomRaccoon, Panstrat).</p></li><li><p>Working knowledge of South African labor laws, health & safety, and liquor licensing.</p></li><li><p>Passion for wildlife, conservation, and guest engagement.</p></li></ul><hr><p><strong>Soft Skills Required</strong></p><ul><li><p>Calm, solution-oriented leadership under pressure.</p></li><li><p>Hands-on and adaptable, especially in remote areas with limited resources.</p></li><li><p>Professional presence and strong communication skills with guests and owners.</p></li><li><p>High standards of integrity and confidentiality.</p></li></ul><p> </p>