Job Description
About the Role
A rare and high-impact executive opportunity exists for an accomplished Group Operations Director East Africa to take leadership responsibility for a prestigious portfolio of luxury safari lodges operating across multiple East African countries. The successful candidate will act as the regional operational custodian, ensuring consistent excellence in guest experience, financial performance, people leadership, and sustainability across geographically dispersed assets.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute the regional operations strategy aligned with long-term group objectives
- Translate corporate vision into clear operational frameworks and performance plans
- Lead annual budgeting, forecasting, and long-term capital planning across all properties
- Identify opportunities for growth, operational optimisation, and asset enhancement
- Provide structured, data-driven reporting to executive leadership and the Board
- Provide direct leadership and oversight to General Managers across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda
- Ensure consistent operating standards, service delivery, and brand alignment across all lodges
- Conduct regular site visits, operational audits, and performance reviews
- Drive operational efficiency while safeguarding guest experience and authenticity
- Oversee compliance with safety, labour, environmental, and regulatory requirements in all jurisdictions
Requirements
- 1015+ years senior leadership experience in luxury hospitality or tourism operations
- Proven experience managing multi-property portfolios across multiple countries
- Strong exposure to East Africa or comparable emerging markets
- Demonstrated success in P&L management, strategic planning, and operational leadership
- Bachelor’s Degree in Hospitality, Tourism, Business Administration, or related discipline
- MBA or postgraduate qualification advantageous
Qualifications
- Completed Bachelor’s Degree in Hospitality, Tourism, Business Administration, or related discipline
Salary & Benefits
A highly competitive executive remuneration package will be offered, commensurate with experience and seniority, and is structured to attract top-tier regional or international talent. Indicative structure includes:
- Tax-free net monthly salary (USD-based), negotiable depending on experience
- Local living allowance (taxable) sufficient for executive-level living in Kenya
- Annual performance-based incentive / bonus linked to financial and operational KPIs
- Annual gratuity equivalent to one month’s net salary per completed year of service
- Company-paid statutory contributions in line with local legislation
- Local Medical including hospital cover
- Executive accommodation support or housing allowance (single or family status)
- Company vehicle
- Company-provided laptop, mobile phone, and communication allowance
- Work permit, visas, and relocation support fully covered
- 30 days paid annual leave, plus one annual return air ticket to country of origin
How to Apply
Click the green “Go Apply” button below to apply directly online with the employer.
About Tourism/Hospitality Management Jobs in South Africa
The tourism and hospitality management industry in South Africa is a dynamic sector that offers a range of career opportunities. Typically, the job market for this field is driven by a growing domestic and international tourist arrivals, as well as an increasing demand for high-quality accommodations and services.
In general, salaries in the tourism and hospitality management industry in South Africa can vary widely depending on factors such as experience, company size, and industry sector. Commonly, entry-level positions may start within a broad salary range of R200 000 to R400 000 per annum, while more senior roles may command salaries between R500 000 to R1 million per annum or more, depending on the specific circumstances.
Common skills for tourism and hospitality management roles in South Africa typically include strong communication and interpersonal skills, ability to work under pressure, experience with property management systems, knowledge of local and international marketing principles, and understanding of health and safety regulations. Other important skills may include language proficiency (particularly English and Afrikaans), adaptability, and attention to detail.
The industry is commonly found in various sectors such as the financial services sector, technology industry, manufacturing sector, and so forth. Tourism and hospitality management roles can also be found within local government agencies and regional development authorities.
For career development, it’s common for individuals to start with entry-level positions in hotels, resorts, or tourist attractions and progress through the ranks over time. Opportunities may arise through training programs, internships, or on-the-job experience. Some may choose to pursue further education at a tertiary level, such as a degree in hospitality management or related fields. Others may opt for specialized certifications or diplomas in areas like hotel operations, marketing, or tourism development.
This information provides general career guidance. Actual salaries and requirements vary by employer.
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