South Africa: Lodge Management Couple posted by Wild Dreams Hospitality

The lodge is located in the Chobe region of Botswana and is suited to hands-on professionals who are passionate about exceptional guest experiences, sustainable tourism, and operating within an off-grid wilderness environment.

Candidate Responsibilities:

• Overall operational management of the lodge (front and back of house)
• Establishing, implementing, and maintaining SOPs across all departments
• Staff leadership, training, performance management, and workplace safety compliance
• Payroll administration and basic HR functions
• Guest hosting and relationship management, ensuring consistently high service standards
• Food & Beverage oversight, including menu planning, costing, quality control, and service delivery
• Stock control, procurement, supplier liaison, and inventory management
• Monitoring supplier accounts and overseeing daily, weekly, and monthly reconciliations
• Maintenance oversight of lodge infrastructure, equipment, and vehicles
• Technical oversight and troubleshooting of off-grid systems, including solar PV and vacuum tube thermal geyser systems
• Conservation and community engagement, including support of NGO/NPO partnerships
• Asset management and contribution to long-term product development
• Upholding sustainability, conservation, and responsible tourism principles

Core Criteria:

• Botswana citizens or candidates with valid, existing Botswana work permits (essential)
• Minimum 5 years’ management experience in a 4–5 star safari lodge or remote off-grid environment
• Formal qualification in Hospitality Management or a related field (essential)
• Excellent written and spoken English; additional international languages advantageous
• Valid Police Clearance(s)
• Valid Professional Driving Permit (PDP)
• Strong financial and budget management experience
• Strong leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills
• Hands-on technical and practical maintenance ability
• Working knowledge of off-grid solar power and hot water systems
• Electrical systems knowledge (advantageous)
• Strong organisational, administrative, and financial management skills
• Computer literacy, including PMS and lodge operations software
• High attention to detail and quality control
• Ability to motivate, train, and develop teams in a remote environment
• Commitment to sustainable lodge operations and conservation

Package:

• Competitive salary (negotiable, SA or Botswana currency)
• Minimum 3-year contract with potential for long-term or permanent appointment
• Live-in position with accommodation and all meals provided
• Leave cycle: 6 weeks on / 2 weeks off (negotiable)
• Suitable for singles or couples
• Not suitable for children
• No pets permitted
• Start date to be confirmed with the successful candidate