South Africa: Assistant Gm Couple posted by Bright Placements

Position Overview An Assistant General Management Couple supports the General Manager in overseeing the full operation of a rural coastal hotel. This hands-on role requires a dynamic couple where one partner typically focuses on Operations & Guest Experience, and the other on Administration, Finance & HR (or both share responsibilities depending on strengths). The couple ensures smooth daily operations, high service standards, financial control, and strong team leadership in a remote hospitality environment. PARTNER 1: Operations & Guest Experience Focus Key Duties & Responsibilities 1. Hotel Operations Management Oversee Front Office, Housekeeping, Food & Beverage, and Maintenance departments. Ensure smooth daily operations and service delivery. Act as Duty Manager when required. Maintain 4–5 star service standards. 2. Guest Experience & Relations Welcome and interact with guests. Handle guest complaints and service recovery professionally. Oversee guest feedback platforms (TripAdvisor, Google Reviews, etc.). Ensure memorable guest experiences aligned with the hotel’s brand. 3. Food & Beverage Oversight Supervise restaurant and bar operations. Ensure stock control and cost management. Monitor service standards and hygiene compliance. Work closely with Head Chef on menus and guest preferences. 4. Staff Management Lead and motivate departmental teams. Conduct daily briefings and staff training. Monitor performance and discipline where required. Foster a positive team culture in a rural environment. 5. Maintenance & Property Care Conduct daily property inspections. Report and manage maintenance issues. Ensure facilities and grounds are well maintained. PARTNER 2: Administration, Finance & HR Focus Key Duties & Responsibilities 1. Financial Management Assist with budgets, forecasts, and financial reporting. Monitor daily revenue and expenses. Control stock, procurement, and supplier accounts. Oversee petty cash and banking. 2. HR & People Management Recruitment and onboarding. Maintain staff files and HR compliance. Manage payroll inputs. Ensure compliance with South African labour legislation. Oversee staff accommodation (if provided on-site). 3. Reservations & Revenue Management Manage booking systems and OTA platforms. Implement pricing strategies with GM. Monitor occupancy and yield. Handle group and corporate bookings. 4. Administration Ensure compliance with health & safety regulations. Maintain licenses and regulatory documentation. Prepare monthly operational reports. Liaise with head office (if applicable). Shared Responsibilities Acting General Managers in GM’s absence. Hosting events, weddings, and conferences. Community engagement and local supplier relationships. Marketing support and social media oversight. Crisis management (power outages, water shortages, guest emergencies). Hands-on operational support when short-staffed. Qualifications & Requirements Education Diploma or Degree in Hospitality Management, Hotel Management, Business Management, or related field. Food Safety/HACCP certification (advantageous). First Aid certification (advantageous). Experience 3–5 years in a senior hospitality role (Lodge Manager, Assistant GM, Operations Manager). Experience in rural, remote, or coastal properties preferred. Strong Food & Beverage background (at least one partner). Solid financial administration experience (at least one partner). Skills & Competencies Strong leadership and team management. Excellent guest relations and communication skills. Financial acumen and cost control ability. Problem-solving in remote environments. Ability to work long hours and weekends. High adaptability and resilience. Hands-on and practical mindset. Technical Skills Proficiency in PMS systems (e.g., Opera, Semper, NightsBridge). Microsoft Office (Excel essential). Online booking platforms knowledge. Basic maintenance understanding (advantageous). Personal Attributes Mature, stable couple dynamic. Excellent interpersonal skills. High emotional intelligence. Guest-focused and service-driven. Comfortable living in a rural coastal area. Community-oriented mindset. Working Conditions Live-in position (often with accommodation provided). Long hours during peak season. Weekend and public holiday work required. Remote environment with limited access to urban facilities.