Hoedspruit: Assistant Lodge Manager – Luxury Safari Lodge – Hoedspruit | Ss posted by HotelJobs

About the Role

Kendrick Recruitment is seeking an experienced Assistant Lodge Manager to support operations at a luxury safari lodge near the Kruger National Park. This hands-on role requires strong leadership, operational expertise, and the ability to deliver exceptional guest experiences in a remote lodge environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the guest journey from arrival to departure
• Maintain and enforce policies, processes, and service standards
• Ensure immediate response to guest service requests
• Oversee 5-star service standards across all departments
• Handle VIP guests and complaints when on duty
• Coordinate external guest activities (hot air balloon, helicopter rides)
• Lodge Operations Management
• Support the General Manager in implementing operational plans
• Oversee daily operations across departments
• Lead daily management meetings and handovers
• Ensure SOPs are followed and recommend improvements
• Coordinate with Reservations for guest arrivals, departures, and special requirements
• Financial Management
• Assist in preparing annual budgets and monitor departmental spending
• Manage petty cash and financial reconciliations
• Monitor stock usage, par levels, and equipment consumption
• Support revenue optimisation through upselling and cross-selling opportunities
• People Leadership & HR
• Manage staff schedules and ensure adequate staffing
• Provide on-the-job training and support
• Assist with recruitment, onboarding, and staff development
• Conduct minor disciplinary processes in the GMs absence
• Ensure professional presentation and adherence to uniform standards
• Health; Safety & Compliance
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, labour, and environmental regulations
• Maintain emergency response readiness
• Enforce safety and security measures
• Maintenance & Infrastructure
• Collaborate with the Maintenance Manager to maintain lodge infrastructure
• Address urgent equipment or infrastructure failures
• Support upkeep of lodge areas including gardens and pools
• Systems; Technology & Reporting
• Implement and maintain lodge management and reporting systems
• Utilise operational software for bookings and guest stays
• Submit operational and financial reports to the General Operations Manager
• Report guest complaints, risks, or incidents according to SOPs
• Maintain effective communication across all departments

Requirements

• Diploma or degree in Hospitality Management or related field
• Minimum 5 years experience in a senior management role within a lodge or luxury hospitality setting
• Strong knowledge of lodge departments (F&B, Housekeeping, Front Office, Maintenance)
• Financial literacy, budgeting, and cost control experience
• Strong leadership, team management, and problem-solving skills
• Excellent guest service and communication abilities
• Computer literate (MS Office, PMS & POS systems)
• Familiarity with lodge management systems (ResRequest, Semper, PANstrat)
• Fluent in English; other local languages advantageous

Qualifications

• Valid drivers licence and ability to work flexible shifts

Salary & Benefits

• R18,000 Negotiable DOE