Hluhluwe: Lodge Manager posted by HotelJobs

Purpose of the Role To lead and oversee all aspects of the lodges daily operations ; ensuring high-end service delivery, exceptional guest experiences, efficient business performance, and alignment with luxury safari standards and conservation values. Key Duties & Responsibilities 1. Operational Leadership Oversee all lodge departments including Front Office/Reception, Guest Services, Housekeeping, Food & Beverage, Kitchen, Maintenance, Guiding & Activities. Ensure smooth coordination and communication between departments to deliver seamless guest experiences. Monitor and uphold health; safety, hygiene, and environmental standards across the property. Maintain lodge facilities, vehicles, equipment, and infrastructure in pristine condition. 2. Guest Experience & Service Excellence Act as the face of the lodge ; personally welcoming guests, hosting throughout their stay, and ensuring personalised service. Handle guest feedback, concerns, claims and special requests promptly and professionally. Create and oversee unique; memorable experiences that reflect the lodges luxury brand and safari environment. Provide VIP hosting and build strong guest relationships for repeat business and positive reviews. 3. Staff Leadership & Human Resources Lead; train, mentor, and motivate a multifunctional team to maintain high standards of service and professionalism. Manage staff rosters, performance appraisals, training programs, and disciplinary procedures. Foster a positive; inclusive team culture and support staff development and engagement. 4. Financial & Administrative Management Oversee budget management, cost control, revenue tracking, and financial reporting to owners or senior management. Manage stock control, procurement, and supplier relationships ; ensuring optimal inventory levels. Prepare regular operational performance reports and data on occupancy, revenue, and guest satisfaction. Ensure efficient administrative systems (reservations, billing, payroll, compliance documentation). 5. Brand Standards & Compliance Ensure that service quality, SOPs, and luxury standards are consistently upheld across all guest-facing areas. Maintain compliance with legal; health & safety, and environmental requirements ; including conservation and sustainability practices. 6. Conservation & Community Engagement Promote and integrate conservation values into the guest experience and lodge operations. Build positive relationships with local communities, stakeholders, and partners where relevant. Qualifications & Experience Diploma or Degree in Hospitality Management, Tourism, Business, or related field preferred. 57+ years of progressive experience in lodge or hotel management, with significant exposure to luxury or 5-star lodge operations. Strong background in leadership; guest service excellence, financial oversight, and remote lodge management . Experience managing multicultural teams in remote environments is advantageous. Skills & Attributes Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. Outstanding guest-centric attitude with high emotional intelligence. Strong organisational, problem-solving, and multitasking ability. Financial acumen and administrative proficiency (MS Office, PMS systems like Opera, Panstrat, etc.). Ability to work under pressure and adapt in a remote, bush-based setting.