Maintenance Manager – East Africa Job Summary We are seeking a dynamic and seasoned Maintenance Manager to lead the upkeep, repair, and preventive maintenance of our facilities and equipment throughout East Africa. This pivotal role demands a blend of technical prowess, operational efficiency, and aesthetic sensibility to ensure our properties uphold the highest standards of luxury hospitality while preserving the natural environment. The Maintenance Manager will direct multidisciplinary teams, guaranteeing seamless operation of power, water, waste, and structural systems, and aligning all elements with our brand ethos of excellence, sustainability, and elegance. Reports to: Head of Operations Key Responsibilities 1. Technical Maintenance & Operations Oversee preventive and corrective maintenance for structures, guest rooms, staff accommodations, machinery, generators, water systems, and waste management facilities. Ensure uninterrupted functionality of power systems (solar, generator, hybrid), boreholes, water distribution, and hot water systems. Develop and monitor preventive maintenance schedules to minimize downtime, optimize efficiency, and control costs. 2. Aesthetics & Guest Experience Guarantee that all repairs and maintenance align with high-end hospitality standards, including superior finishing, painting, landscaping, and lighting. Collaborate with lodge managers to maintain visual harmony, ensuring facilities integrate seamlessly with the surrounding natural landscape. Supervise landscaping, pathways, signage, lighting, and exterior spaces to keep them pristine, welcoming, and consistent with our brand image. Perform routine inspections of guest-facing areas to uphold impeccable standards in every detail. 3. Team Leadership & Training Lead, train, and mentor the maintenance team to achieve peak performance and uphold professional excellence. Cultivate an appreciation for aesthetics and guest-centric sensitivity among team members. Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and pride in delivering luxury standards. Ensure adherence to safety protocols and compliance with regulations from TANAPA, NCAA, NEMA, and other national authorities. 4. Sustainability & Compliance Champion eco-friendly practices in energy, water, and waste management. Track and report on energy and water usage, implementing efficiencies to reduce environmental impact. Maintain full compliance with environmental guidelines and our conservation commitments across all operations. 5. Planning, Budgeting & Reporting Prepare annual maintenance budgets and manage expenditures prudently. Oversee inventory of tools, spare parts, and materials for timely availability. Deliver regular reports to senior management on maintenance status, asset conditions, and improvement initiatives. Contribute to the planning and execution of capital projects, refurbishments, and upgrades. Required Skills and Qualifications Diploma, degree, or equivalent in a relevant field (e.g., mechanical engineering, facilities management). In-depth expertise in mechanical systems, controls, critical infrastructure, electrical and solar systems, plumbing, and water management. At least 5-7 years of experience in maintenance management, ideally in high-end lodges or hospitality settings in East Africa. Demonstrated proficiency in managing hybrid power systems, water treatment, and other essential infrastructure. Proven leadership of multi-skilled teams. Strong budget and schedule management capabilities. Willingness to travel to remote bush locations where our camps and lodges are situated, on an as-needed basis. Ability to foster strong relationships with managers, staff, vendors, and stakeholders. Excellent leadership and communication skills, with expertise in team motivation and conflict resolution. Proficiency in computer literacy, including MS Office suite. Capacity to thrive under pressure in a fast-paced environment. Stable employment history demonstrating commitment and dedication. Fluency in English; proficiency in Swahili is a strong advantage. Core Competencies Advanced technical problem-solving abilities. Superior planning, organizational, and project management skills. Keen attention to detail with unwavering standards for quality and aesthetics. Robust leadership and people management expertise. Solid financial acumen for effective budget oversight. Deep commitment to sustainability and environmentally conscious operations. Personal Attributes Hands-on, proactive, and resourceful approach. Exceptional mentorship abilities to coach and empower team members. Guest-focused mindset, recognizing the direct impact of maintenance on satisfaction. Adaptable and resilient in remote, challenging environments. Uncompromising integrity, accountability, and professionalism. Collaborative and culturally sensitive demeanor.
