South Africa: Fleet Manager (Luxury Lodge) – Pilanesberg posted by Phoenix Recruitment

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Fleet Manager to join our 5-star game lodge in Pilanesberg, South Africa. As a key member of our operations team, you will be responsible for ensuring the smooth running of our workshop and fleet, while also supporting uninterrupted lodge operations, guest safety, and exceptional safari experiences.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the maintenance, servicing, and repairs of all lodge vehicles and equipment
• Manage and manage preventative maintenance schedules to minimise breakdowns
• Ensure all vehicles are roadworthy, safe, and compliant with legal and reserve requirements
• Maintain detailed service records and asset registers
• Advise management on new technology, equipment, vehicles, and best practices that should implement to improve efficiencies and costs
• Lead, manage, and motivate a team comprising: Mechanics Workshop assistants
• Allocate daily tasks to ensure efficient workflow
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide coaching and skills development
• Enforce discipline, productivity, and high workmanship standards
• Develop weekly and monthly workshop plans and maintenance schedules
• Prioritise urgent repairs to minimize operational disruptions
• Coordinate closely with Lodge operations, Guiding department and Service Teams
• Ensure standby and emergency mechanical support is available
• Manage workshop inventory, tools, spares, lubricants, and consumables
• Maintain minimum stock levels and reorder timeously
• Source suppliers, negotiate pricing, and control costs
• Prepare and manage workshop budgets
• Reduce waste and ensure cost-effective repairs
• Ensure full compliance with Occupational Health & Safety Act (OHSA), Environmental regulations and internal safety standards
• Conduct toolbox talks and safety briefings
• Maintain a clean, organised, and hazard-free workshop
• Enforce PPE usage and safe work practices
• Inspect completed work for quality and safety
• Implement workshop best practices and SOPs
• Ensure all repairs meet luxury lodge operational standards
• Promote a preventative maintenance culture rather than reactive repairs

Requirements

Trade qualification in: Diesel Mechanic / Motor Mechanic / Auto Electrician

Valid driver’s license (Code B minimum; Code C/EC advantageous)

Computer literacy (basic Excel, email, maintenance systems)

Minimum 5–8 years of mechanical experience

At least 3 years in a supervisory/managerial role

Experience in fleet management, remote/lodge operations

Qualifications

None specified

Salary & Benefits

Not applicable