Grahamstown: Operations Director posted by Bright Placements (PTY) Ltd

Operations Director Hunting Safari Operation Eastern Cape
Position Overview
The Operations Director is responsible for the strategic and operational leadership of the safari operation, ensuring safe, ethical, and profitable delivery of world-class hunting and hospitality experiences. This role oversees all operational divisions including guiding, camp management, logistics, compliance, staff leadership, and client experience. The Operations Director drives operational excellence, conservation responsibility, and financial performance while protecting the reputation of the safari brand.
The ideal candidate is an experienced safari professional with strong leadership ability, regulatory knowledge, and commercial acumen.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
Operational Leadership
Oversee all safari and camp operations
Ensure seamless coordination between guiding, logistics, and hospitality
Maintain high standards of client experience
Develop and implement operational strategies
Monitor operational efficiency and risk management
Supervise multiple camps or hunting areas if applicable
Compliance & Ethics
Ensure full compliance with local hunting laws and permits
Maintain firearm and wildlife regulations
Enforce ethical hunting standards
Oversee conservation and land management practices
Manage relationships with authorities and landowners
Client Experience
Ensure premium client hosting and satisfaction
Handle VIP clients and international hunters
Manage complaints and operational challenges
Protect brand reputation
Financial & Commercial Management
Manage operational budgets and cost control
Forecast seasonal logistics and resource needs
Oversee procurement and equipment management
Support sales strategy and revenue growth
Analyze profitability per safari season
Staff Leadership
Recruit, train, and manage professional hunters and camp staff
Build a high-performance operational culture
Conduct performance reviews and mentoring
Ensure safety training and operational readiness
Logistics & Infrastructure
Manage vehicles, equipment, firearms, and supplies
Oversee camp maintenance and upgrades
Plan seasonal operational logistics
Ensure remote site readiness
Safety & Risk Management
Enforce strict safety protocols
Emergency planning and crisis response
Insurance and liability compliance
Qualifications & Requirements
Business Degree or Diploma
Previous Lodge experience
Extensive experience in hunting safari operations
Licensed Professional Hunter certification (where applicable)
Strong knowledge of hunting laws and compliance
Minimum 8–10 years senior operational leadership experience
Proven ability to manage remote operations
Financial and commercial management skills
Excellent client relations and hosting ability
Firearm competency and safety training
Strong leadership and decision-making ability
Physically fit and able to work in demanding environments
Willingness to travel and live in remote locations
Passion for conservation and ethical hunting