Hoedspruit: Lodge Management Couple posted by Bushwise

An exceptional opportunity exists for an experienced and passionate Lodge Manager / Field Guide Couple to join a luxury safari lodge situated within a premier Big Five wilderness area. This role is ideally suited to a couple seeking a lifestyle position where hospitality excellence and immersive wildlife experiences combine to create unforgettable guest journeys.

The successful couple will be responsible for the overall management of lodge operations while delivering world-class guiding experiences and ensuring exceptional guest satisfaction.

Position 1: Lodge Manager

Key Responsibilities

• Guest Experience
  
• Ensure the delivery of exceptional guest service throughout the guest journey.
  
• Personally engage with guests to maintain high levels of satisfaction.
  
• Handle guest feedback and resolve any concerns professionally and efficiently.
  
• Coordinate special guest requests and experiences.
  
• Lodge Operations
  
• Oversee the daily operation of the lodge and all departments.
  
• Maintain and implement operational standards, policies, and procedures.
  
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and company standards.
  
• Monitor lodge maintenance requirements and coordinate repairs when necessary.
  
• Staff Management
  
• Lead, motivate, and develop lodge staff.
  
• Manage staff scheduling, performance, and training.
  
• Foster a positive and productive team culture.
  
• Conduct regular staff meetings and performance discussions.
  
• Administration & Financial Management
  
• Manage stock control and procurement processes.
  
• Monitor departmental budgets and expenses.
  
• Prepare operational reports and maintain accurate records.
  
• Ensure effective management of reservations and guest information.
  

Position 2: Field Guide

Key Responsibilities

Guiding & Guest Experiences

• Conduct professional game drives and bush walks.
  
• Deliver engaging and informative wildlife interpretations.
  
• Ensure guest safety at all times.
  
• Create memorable and educational safari experiences.
  
• Assist with hosting duties and guest interaction throughout their stay.
  
• Conservation & Wildlife Monitoring
  
• Contribute to wildlife observations and monitoring initiatives.
  
• Assist with reserve conservation activities when required.
  
• Promote environmental awareness and responsible tourism practices.
  
• Vehicle & Equipment Management
  
• Maintain safari vehicles and guiding equipment to a high standard.
  
• Conduct daily vehicle inspections and report maintenance requirements.
  
• Ensure all guiding equipment is safe and operational.
  

Requirements

Ideal Couple Profile

• Previous experience working together within a luxury safari environment.
  
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.
  
• Positive, hands-on, and service-oriented approach.
  
• Ability to live and work in a remote wilderness setting.
  
• Commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences and maintaining high operational standards.

Requirements

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in a lodge management role within a luxury safari environment.
  
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
  
• Excellent guest relations and communication abilities.
  
• Sound financial and administrative management experience.
  
• Computer literacy, including Microsoft Office and hospitality management systems.
  
• Valid driver’s licence.
• Passion for conservation, hospitality, and the safari industry.

&

• Minimum 23 years’ guiding experience within a Big Five reserve environment.
  
• Nature Site Guide Qualification (NQF-aligned).
  
• Valid First Aid certification.
  
• Valid PrDP.
  
• Rifle competency and relevant firearm qualifications advantageous.
  
• Excellent communication and guest engagement skills.
  
• Strong knowledge of local flora, fauna, ecology, and conservation principles.
  
• Passion for wildlife and creating exceptional guest experiences.