Position Overview The General Manager is responsible for the full operational, financial, and strategic leadership of a game lodge or safari lodge. This role oversees all eco-tourism and/or hunting-related activities, hospitality operations, staff management, guest experience, marketing, conservation alignment, and business development. The ideal candidate is an experienced hospitality professional with a strong background in lodge management, luxury guest services, wildlife operations, and developing profitable, sustainable tourism offerings. The General Manager ensures world-class service delivery while driving growth and maintaining strong conservation and community relationships. Key Responsibilities 1. Strategic Development & Operations Develop and implement long-term business strategies for eco-tourism, hospitality, and, where applicable, hunting operations. Oversee daily lodge operations, including accommodation, guest services, housekeeping, maintenance, food & beverage, and activities. Establish operational systems, SOPs, budgets, policies, and performance standards. Ensure all activities align with conservation, sustainability, and ethical tourism practices. Drive continuous improvement across all operational areas. 2. Marketing & Business Development Create and execute marketing strategies to position the lodge as a premier tourism destination. Build and maintain relationships with tour operators, travel agents, travel platforms, and industry partners. Oversee digital marketing, social media, and online presence to increase visibility and bookings. Represent the lodge at tourism fairs, trade shows, and networking events when required. 3. Guest Experience & Service Excellence Ensure a 5-star guest experience from arrival to departure. Personalise experiences for various guest profiles, including eco-tourism, photographic safaris, and hunting guests (where applicable). Monitor guest feedback, implement service improvements, and maintain high satisfaction ratings. Uphold service standards and ensure all staff deliver exceptional hospitality. 4. Financial & Administrative Management Prepare annual business plans, budgets, and financial forecasts. Monitor costs, control expenditure, and ensure profitability targets are achieved. Oversee procurement, supplier management, and inventory control. Ensure accurate reporting, compliance, and administrative efficiency. 5. People Leadership & Human Resources Recruit; train, lead, and manage a multi-disciplinary team across hospitality, field operations, and support services. Implement staff development, performance management, and succession planning. Foster a positive culture of professionalism, teamwork, accountability, and service excellence. Ensure HR compliance and fair labour practices. 6. Conservation & Community Engagement Work collaboratively with conservation teams to integrate eco-focused initiatives into guest experiences. Ensure all wildlife-related activities, including ethical hunting where applicable, meet conservation standards. Build and maintain strong relationships with local communities. Support socio-economic upliftment projects and community engagement programs. Qualifications & Experience Degree or diploma in Hospitality Management, Eco-Tourism, Wildlife Management, or a related field. Minimum 810 years lodge or game reserve management experience, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role. Proven ability to establish, grow, or transform lodge operations. In-depth understanding of eco-tourism, wildlife conservation, and guest experience dynamics. Experience in managing high-end or luxury safari lodges is highly advantageous. Strong financial and business management skills. Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal abilities. Valid drivers licence; firearm competency advantageous depending on lodge operations. Personal Attributes Visionary; strategic thinker with entrepreneurial drive. Passion for conservation, hospitality, and wildlife. Hands-on; practical problem-solver with strong operational insight. Exceptional interpersonal and cross-cultural communication abilities. Highly organised, adaptable, and results-driven. Able to thrive in a remote, fast-paced lodge environment.
