South Africa: Guest House Manager posted by Zeebra Junction Specialist Recruitment

About the Role

The Guest House Manager is responsible for the overall operations, administration, and guest experience of a 12-room boutique guest house in Jinja, Uganda. The ideal candidate is a dynamic hospitality professional with a formal tertiary qualification in Hospitality Management and a strong background in Food & Beverage operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the guest house, including front office, housekeeping, F&B, and guest services.
• Maintain exceptional cleanliness, upkeep, and readiness of all guest areas, rooms, and facilities.
• Monitor and ensure adherence to service standards and operating procedures.

• Provide a warm, personal, and memorable guest experience from pre-arrival to departure.
• Handle guest requests, complaints, and feedback promptly and professionally.
• Foster repeat business through excellent service and relationship building.

• Plan, manage, and oversee all F&B services including breakfast, lunch, dinner, bar service, and special events.
• Work closely with kitchen staff to ensure quality, hygiene, and consistency of food and beverage offerings.
• Monitor food costs, portion control, inventory, and supplier relationships.

• Assist in developing and managing budgets, controlling expenses, and maximizing revenue.
• Monitor occupancy, room rates, sales targets, and profit margins.
• Implement cost control procedures and financial reporting systems.

• Recruit, train, supervise, and motivate a multi-disciplinary team.
• Ensure proper rostering, scheduling, and staff productivity.
• Conduct regular staff performance reviews and develop training plans.

• Drive online presence, manage OTA listings, and respond to guest reviews.
• Support the development of marketing initiatives to attract both local and international guests.
• Build relationships with local tour operators, travel agents, and community partners.

• Ensure compliance with local health, safety, and hospitality regulations.
• Oversee property maintenance schedules and coordinate repairs.
• Maintain a safe environment for guests and staff alike.

Requirements

• A formal tertiary qualification (Diploma or Degree) in Hospitality Management or a related field is mandatory.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in hospitality operations, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Proven background and practical expertise in Food & Beverage management.
• Familiarity with PMS, POS, MS Office Suite, and online booking platforms (e.g. Booking.com, Airbnb).
• Understanding of cost control, budgeting, and inventory systems.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• High attention to detail and organisational ability.
• Culturally sensitive and adaptable to local environments.
• Proficient in English; additional languages are advantageous.

Qualifications

No qualifications mentioned.

Salary & Benefits

Competitive salary package US$ 1500.00 (Net) based on qualifications and experience, Accommodation and Meals, Annual Gratuity, NSSF contributions covered by the company, Cost of all Visa and work permits covered by the company, Annual return air flights to point of origin when on leave, Annual Leave.

Working Conditions

On-site live-in position, Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends, holidays, and occasional late shifts.