South Africa: Assistant Lodge Manager posted by Kendrick Recruitment

Assistant Lodge Manager
Luxury Lodge | Greater Kruger
Salary: R18,000 Negotiable DOE | Live-In Position

Kendrick Recruitment is currently seeking an experienced and service-driven Assistant Lodge Manager for a luxury lodge situated in the Greater Kruger region.

This is an exciting opportunity for a hospitality professional with strong operational expertise, exceptional leadership skills, and a passion for delivering outstanding guest experiences. Working closely with the General Manager, the successful candidate will play a key role in overseeing the day-to-day operations of the lodge, ensuring exceptional service standards, operational efficiency, team development, and guest satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

Guest Experience & Service Standards

Oversee the complete guest journey from arrival to departure.
Ensure all departments consistently deliver exceptional service standards.
Handle guest concerns and complaints professionally and efficiently.
Manage VIP guest experiences and special requests.
Coordinate and communicate all external guest activities and excursions.
Ensure guest confidentiality and data security standards are maintained.
Monitor service delivery and implement improvements where required.
Ensure senior management presence during meal service periods.

Lodge Operations Management

Support the General Manager with the implementation of operational plans and objectives.
Oversee the daily operations of all lodge departments including Housekeeping, Food & Beverage, Front Office, Maintenance and Laundry.
Lead daily operational meetings and departmental handovers.
Ensure all Standard Operating Procedures are followed consistently.
Monitor lodge standards and identify opportunities for operational improvements.
Maintain close communication with the Reservations team regarding arrivals, departures and special guest requirements.
Assist with the implementation and monitoring of pest control and lodge maintenance programmes.

Financial Management

Support budget management and cost control initiatives.
Ensure operational expenses remain within approved budgets.
Assist with inventory control and stock management.
Manage petty cash accurately and ensure reconciliations are completed.
Monitor staffing levels and scheduling to maximise operational efficiency.
Work closely with Finance and Procurement teams to maintain inventory and par stock levels.
Support revenue optimisation through upselling and cross-selling opportunities.

People Leadership & Team Development

Supervise and support lodge staff during shifts.
Assist with staff recruitment, onboarding and induction processes.
Provide ongoing coaching and on-the-job training.
Support performance management and employee development initiatives.
Conduct counselling sessions and manage minor disciplinary matters when required.
Ensure all staff maintain professional presentation and grooming standards.
Promote a positive team culture and strong employee engagement.

Health, Safety & Compliance

Ensure compliance with health, safety, labour and environmental legislation.
Maintain emergency preparedness and response procedures.
Uphold all lodge safety and security standards for guests and staff.
Ensure confidential information is handled appropriately and securely.
Assist with incident reporting and injury-on-duty documentation where required.

Maintenance Oversight

Work closely with the Maintenance team to ensure all facilities are maintained to the highest standard.
Address urgent maintenance issues and equipment failures promptly.
Support the upkeep of lodge infrastructure, guest areas, gardens and swimming pools.
Monitor maintenance projects and preventative maintenance schedules.

Systems & Technology

Ensure effective utilisation of lodge management and reporting systems.
Support the implementation of operational technologies and system improvements.
Utilise reporting and communication tools to enhance operational efficiency.
Identify opportunities for innovation and service enhancement.
Ensure guest accommodation systems and operational processes function effectively.

Reporting & Communication

Compile and submit operational reports as required.
Report guest complaints, incidents and operational risks in accordance with company procedures.
Represent the lodge in management meetings and forums.
Maintain effective communication across all departments to ensure seamless operations.
Ensure maintenance issues, equipment failures and operational concerns are reported and addressed promptly.

Requirements

Diploma or Degree in Hospitality Management or a related field.
Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a senior management role within a luxury lodge or hospitality environment.
Comprehensive knowledge of all lodge departments including Food & Beverage, Housekeeping, Front Office and Maintenance.
Strong financial management, budgeting and cost control skills.
Excellent leadership, people management and problem-solving abilities.
Outstanding guest relations and communication skills.
Proficient in Microsoft Office, PMS and POS systems.
Experience working with lodge management systems such as ResRequest, Semper or PANstrat.
Fluent in English; additional languages would be advantageous.
Valid driver’s licence.
Willingness to work shifts, weekends and public holidays.
Comfortable living and working in a remote lodge environment.

Core Competencies

Strong operational and strategic thinking abilities.
Excellent interpersonal and leadership skills.
Financial literacy and sound decision-making capabilities.
Calm, professional and solution-oriented approach under pressure.
Passion for hospitality, guest service and conservation.
Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
High levels of integrity, professionalism and accountability.
Cultural awareness and inclusiveness.

Package

Salary: R18,000 Negotiable Depending on Experience.
Live-in accommodation provided.
Opportunity to join a respected luxury lodge within the Greater Kruger region.

Suitable candidates who are passionate about luxury hospitality and guest excellence are invited to submit their CV for consideration.