Job Description
GROUP OPERATIONS DIRECTOR EAST AFRICA
Kenya-Based | Executive Leadership Appointment
Employment Type
Full-Time | Executive Management | Regional Oversight Role
Location
Based in Kenya with extensive travel across safari lodge operations in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda
THE OPPORTUNITY
A rare and high-impact executive opportunity exists for an accomplished Group Operations Director East Africa to take leadership responsibility for a prestigious portfolio of luxury safari lodges operating across multiple East African countries.
This role is designed for a commercially astute, operationally rigorous hospitality leader with deep experience in multi-property, cross-border operations, ideally within safari lodges, remote luxury environments, or destination hospitality.
The successful candidate will act as the regional operational custodian, ensuring consistent excellence in guest experience, financial performance, people leadership, and sustainability across geographically dispersed assets.
ROLE OVERVIEW
Reporting directly to Group Executive leadership and the Board, the Group Operations Director will assume full accountability for operational performance and profitability across the East African portfolio.
The position requires a hands-on yet strategic leader who can balance on-the-ground operational engagement with board-level strategic planning, while leading diverse teams across different regulatory, cultural, and logistical environments.
This is both a leadership and transformation role, focused on elevating standards, strengthening systems, optimising performance, and future-proofing the hospitality portfolio.
KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES
Executive & Strategic Leadership
- Develop and execute the regional operations strategy aligned with long-term group objectives
Translate corporate vision into clear operational frameworks and performance plans
Lead annual budgeting, forecasting, and long-term capital planning across all properties
Identify opportunities for growth, operational optimisation, and asset enhancement
Provide structured, data-driven reporting to executive leadership and the Board
Multi-Country Operational Oversight
- Provide direct leadership and oversight to General Managers across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda
Ensure consistent operating standards, service delivery, and brand alignment across all lodges
Conduct regular site visits, operational audits, and performance reviews
Drive operational efficiency while safeguarding guest experience and authenticity
Oversee compliance with safety, labour, environmental, and regulatory requirements in all jurisdictions
Commercial & Financial Performance
- Full P&L accountability for the regional hospitality portfolio
Drive revenue optimisation through pricing strategy, yield management, and product development
Monitor and control costs without compromising service quality or sustainability standards
Implement and track KPIs including occupancy, ADR, RevPAR, margins, and cash flow
Ensure strong financial governance, reporting accuracy, and cost discipline
Sales, Marketing & Market Positioning
- Work closely with Group Sales & Marketing leadership to strengthen international market presence
Support trade partnerships with tour operators, DMCs, and key distribution partners
Ensure operational delivery aligns with brand promise and market positioning
Monitor tourism trends, competitor activity, and guest expectations to inform strategy
Guest Experience & Quality Assurance
- Champion a guest-centric culture across all operations
Set and enforce service standards aligned with luxury safari hospitality expectations
Oversee guest feedback platforms, review management, and continuous improvement initiatives
Drive innovation in experiential offerings, food & beverage, and wellness concepts
People Leadership & Organisational Development
- Lead, mentor, and develop General Managers and senior operational leaders
Drive succession planning, leadership development, and performance management frameworks
Build a culture of accountability, empowerment, and cross-border collaboration
Ensure best-practice HR, employee engagement, and retention strategies are implemented
Sustainability, Conservation & Community Impact
- Ensure all operations align with ESG and responsible tourism principles
Support conservation initiatives and meaningful community engagement programs
Foster strong relationships with government bodies, conservation authorities, and local stakeholders
Embed sustainability metrics into operational and financial performance reporting
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE
- 1015+ years senior leadership experience in luxury hospitality or tourism operations
Proven experience managing multi-property portfolios across multiple countries
Strong exposure to East Africa or comparable emerging markets
Demonstrated success in P&L management, strategic planning, and operational leadership
Bachelors Degree in Hospitality, Tourism, Business Administration, or related discipline
MBA or postgraduate qualification advantageous
Strong leadership presence, high emotional intelligence, and cultural sensitivity
Comfortable operating in remote locations and dynamic environments
SALARY & REMUNERATION STRUCTURE
A highly competitive executive remuneration package will be offered, commensurate with experience and seniority, and is structured to attract top-tier regional or international talent.
Indicative structure includes:
- Tax-free net monthly salary (USD-based), negotiable depending on experience
Local living allowance (taxable) sufficient for executive-level living in Kenya
Annual performance-based incentive / bonus linked to financial and operational KPIs
Annual gratuity equivalent to one months net salary per completed year of service
Company-paid statutory contributions in line with local legislation
Local Medical including hospital cover
Executive accommodation support or housing allowance (single or family status)
Company vehicle
Company-provided laptop, mobile phone, and communication allowance
Work permit, visas, and relocation support fully covered
30 days paid annual leave, plus one annual return air ticket to country of origin
Contract tenure: Renewable executive contract with long-term career progression potential.
WHY CONSIDER THIS ROLE
This is a rare opportunity to shape and lead a regionally significant luxury safari portfolio, working at executive level with meaningful strategic influence.
The role offers:
Significant leadership autonomy
Exposure to Board-level decision-making
The chance to make a lasting impact on hospitality, conservation, and communities
A purpose-driven environment within one of Africas most compelling tourism regions
How to Apply
Click the green “Go Apply” button below to apply directly online with the employer.
About Tourism/Hospitality Management Jobs in South Africa
The tourism and hospitality management industry in South Africa is a dynamic sector that offers a range of career opportunities. Typically, the job market for this field is driven by a growing domestic and international tourist arrivals, as well as an increasing demand for high-quality accommodations and services.
In general, salaries in the tourism and hospitality management industry in South Africa can vary widely depending on factors such as experience, company size, and industry sector. Commonly, entry-level positions may start within a broad salary range of R200 000 to R400 000 per annum, while more senior roles may command salaries between R500 000 to R1 million per annum or more, depending on the specific circumstances.
Common skills for tourism and hospitality management roles in South Africa typically include strong communication and interpersonal skills, ability to work under pressure, experience with property management systems, knowledge of local and international marketing principles, and understanding of health and safety regulations. Other important skills may include language proficiency (particularly English and Afrikaans), adaptability, and attention to detail.
The industry is commonly found in various sectors such as the financial services sector, technology industry, manufacturing sector, and so forth. Tourism and hospitality management roles can also be found within local government agencies and regional development authorities.
For career development, it’s common for individuals to start with entry-level positions in hotels, resorts, or tourist attractions and progress through the ranks over time. Opportunities may arise through training programs, internships, or on-the-job experience. Some may choose to pursue further education at a tertiary level, such as a degree in hospitality management or related fields. Others may opt for specialized certifications or diplomas in areas like hotel operations, marketing, or tourism development.
This information provides general career guidance. Actual salaries and requirements vary by employer.
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