Upington: Horse Stables Manager – Northern Cape Reserve posted by HotelJobs

PURPOSE: To manage all horse and stable operations within the reserve, ensuring the highest standards of horse welfare, guest safety, staff supervision, and horseback safari experiences. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Oversee the daily management of the stables, paddocks, feed rooms, and tack rooms. Ensure the health, welfare, fitness, and conditioning of all horses. Develop feeding programs, exercise schedules, and stable routines. Supervise and train grooms, horse guides, and stable staff. Allocate horses according to guest riding ability and operational needs. Ensure all tack, saddlery, and riding equipment is maintained and safe. Coordinate veterinary care, farrier visits, vaccinations, and medical records. Implement and enforce horse and rider safety protocols. Assist with or lead horseback safaris when required. Manage stable stock, feed orders, bedding, and equipment budgets. Maintain accurate records of horse health, treatments, and workload. Ensure compliance with reserve, conservation, and safety policies. Work closely with lodge management, guiding team, and operations. Assist with training of horses and introducing new horses to the reserve. Ensure stables and surrounding areas are clean, organised, and presentable for guests. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: Significant experience managing horses and stable operations. Experience in a game reserve, safari lodge, or trail riding environment preferred. Strong horse handling and riding ability. Knowledge of equine health, nutrition, and conditioning. Staff management and leadership experience. First Aid certification (equine and human advantageous). Valid drivers licence; PDP and rifle competency advantageous where required. SKILLS & COMPETENCIES: Strong leadership and team management skills. Excellent organisational and planning ability. High attention to detail and safety awareness. Good guest interaction and hosting skills. Problem-solving and decision-making ability. Passion for horses, wildlife, and conservation. WORKING CONDITIONS: Based on a remote game reserve. Early mornings, weekends, and public holidays required. Outdoor and physically demanding work environment. WHAT WE OFFER A dynamic leadership role in a vibrant and unique environment. Opportunity to work within one of South Africas most respected conservation brands. Competitive compensation and benefits package. A culture of innovation, collaboration, and hospitality excellence. Being part of a purpose-led organisation focused on meaningful impact. Manual Drivers licence preferred 1. Submit an updated CV starting with your current position, and attach a recent headshot taken in the past six months. 2. By applying, candidates agree to provide any extra information requested by Hospitality Exchange within 24 hours, including references from previous 2 or 3 direct supervisors, prior to current employer, and consent to contact. 3. Interviews will be held on teams and thereafter in person at the lodge 4. Only South African Nationals will be considered.