Badplaas: Safari Lodge General Manager – Private Game Reserve

Overview A well-known Hospitality Group seeks an accomplished General Manager to lead a flagship luxury safari reserve set within a pristine wilderness landscape. This is a senior, hands-on leadership appointment for a hospitality professional who combines refined guest experience delivery with commercial acumen , operational discipline , and a genuine commitment to conservation . You will reside on site and take full accountability for the end-to-end performance of the reserve, ensuring world-class standards across guest experience, safari operations, facilities, people leadership, compliance, and financial results. The Role Reporting to executive leadership, the General Manager is the custodian of the reserve’s reputation, culture, and performance. You will lead multiple departments in a remote environment, align teams behind a unified service vision, and ensure the property operates seamlessly at luxury hospitality standards while respecting environmental and conservation priorities. Key Responsibilities Operational Leadership Direct oversight of lodge operations, safari operations, maintenance, conservation support, finance, stores, and security Ensure seamless coordination between departments to deliver flawless guest journeys Maintain exceptional lodge presentation, asset care, and preventative maintenance culture Oversee logistics and procurement in a remote, off-grid environment Guest Experience Excellence Uphold and elevate luxury service standards across all touchpoints Host VIP guests and ensure personalised, memorable safari experiences Monitor guest feedback, implement service improvements, and protect brand reputation Financial & Commercial Management Full budget ownership, cost control, and performance accountability Drive revenue optimisation and expense discipline without compromising standards Manage stock control, procurement efficiency, and waste reduction Produce accurate financial and operational reporting People Leadership & Culture Lead, mentor, and develop a diverse, multi-disciplinary on-site team Embed a high-performance, service-driven culture Ensure effective workforce planning, training, and succession readiness Foster morale and teamwork within a live-in environment Compliance, Risk & Conservation Alignment Ensure adherence to hospitality, conservation, and health & safety regulations Support conservation principles and sustainable tourism practices Maintain strong relationships with owners, partners, and stakeholders Safeguard the reserve’s ethical, environmental, and operational standards Candidate Profile Minimum 8 years’ senior leadership experience within luxury lodges or private game reserves Proven track record as a General Manager or Senior Lodge Manager Strong financial management and operational control capability Experience managing remote or off-grid hospitality environments Deep appreciation for conservation and sustainable tourism Emotionally intelligent leader able to inspire teams in a live-in setting Comfortable acting as custodian of guest experience and brand standards Willing and able to reside on site Qualifications Qualification in Hospitality Management, Business, or Tourism (preferred) Exposure to conservation, wildlife environments, or safari operations advantageous Remuneration & Benefits Salary: ZAR 42,000.00 On-site accommodation provided Meals provided Uniforms and laundry service provided Annual leave Why This Role Is Exceptional This is not a conventional lodge management position. It is a holistic leadership role within a high-profile safari reserve where operational excellence, guest experience, conservation ethos, and team culture converge. The successful candidate will take stewardship of a property recognised for its wilderness setting, refined hospitality, and immersive safari offering.