South Africa: Lodge Manager/ Facility Manager – Big 5 Area Mkhuze, Kzn posted by HotelJobs

This role requires a confident, self-motivated individual with strong maintenance and operational experience, able to manage the lodge independently while maintaining high guest service standards. Responsibilities include full day-to-day lodge management, guest experience, staff supervision, property and infrastructure maintenance, and oversight of vehicles, utilities, and ongoing operations. The candidate will work closely with Head Office, ensuring smooth execution of bookings, accurate daily reporting, and proactive communication on operations and guest experience. We are looking for someone with proven experience in a similar lodge or reserve environment, strong hands-on maintenance skills, and the ability to prioritise, work independently, and lead from the front. A valid drivers licence is required and the ability to operate larger vehicles is important. The ideal candidate is fit and healthy, well-presented, detail-oriented, and a strong communicator, able to represent the brand professionally. This is a live-in position. No children or pets. Lodge Operations Oversee all day-to-day lodge operations Ensure high guest satisfaction and consistently high service standards Manage guest arrivals, departures, and overall on-site experience Maintain cleanliness, presentation, and full functionality of all facilities Act as a professional ambassador for the brand, ensuring communication, presentation, and attention to detail reflect brand standards Assist with meal planning, basic food preparation, and kitchen oversight when required Coordination with Head Office (HQ) Head Office retains full control over: Marketing and brand management Bookings and reservations Financial management and accounting The Lodge Manager is required to fully support and cooperate with HQ, including: Ensuring all bookings are executed smoothly and accurately on-site Assisting with room allocations and flexible guest configurations Providing accurate daily reporting and ongoing operational updates to management Supplying timely and complete information, including: Availability and capacity updates Lodge setup limitations or opportunities Maintenance issues affecting bookings Assisting with budgets, quotes, cost inputs, and operational pricing when required Submitting all required reports, data, and feedback promptly and accurately Proactively communicating any issues affecting: Guest experience Bookings Operational efficiency Lodge Management Oversee all farm activities, infrastructure, and general property maintenance Manage water systems, fencing, roads, vehicles, and equipment Implement and maintain preventative maintenance schedules Ensure overall property condition, safety, and operational readiness Environmental & Land Management Coordinate bush clearing projects and manage temporary labour teams Oversee controlled burns in line with reserve regulations Maintain accurate records of cleared and burned areas (dates, scope, outcomes) Identify and recommend areas requiring intervention, with clear motivation Plan activities in line with seasonal and operational requirements Reserve Coordination & Reporting Prepare and submit a monthly Section Managers Report Maintain strong, professional relationships with reserve management Ensure full compliance with reserve rules and environmental standards Staff Management Supervise all lodge staff (housekeeping, kitchen, admin, guides) Oversee rangers and coordinate duties (guiding not required) Manage temporary workers and contractors Handle training, scheduling, discipline, and performance management Financial Oversight (On-Site) Control operational expenses within approved budgets Monitor stock and prevent wastage or theft Provide accurate financial input to HQ No financial decisions outside of authority without approval Key Requirements & Skills Proven experience as a Lodge Manager, Assistant Lodge Manager, or Maintenance Manager Strong hands-on maintenance skills (electrical, plumbing, general repairs) Basic culinary skills, with the ability to assist in the kitchen and ensure food quality and presentation when required Ability to drive and operate large vehicles and lodge machinery Valid drivers licence (Code 10 advantageous) Strong leadership, communication, and guest-facing ability Ability to work independently, prioritise tasks effectively, and manage time without supervision Strong administrative ability, including clear written communication and attention to detail Preferred Qualifications Trade qualification (electrician, plumber, or similar) Experience on a game reserve or safari lodge Mechanical knowledge Health & safety or first-aid certification Personal Attributes Confident; reliable, and adaptable Physically fit and healthy, able to handle a demanding, hands-on role Well-presented; neat, and professional at all times Strong work ethic with a proactive, solutions-driven approach Comfortable living and working in a remote bush environment By applying for this position, the candidate agrees to provide any additional information requested by the recruitment consultant, in order for Hospitality Exchange to compile a comprehensive Candidate Profile which includes the consultant obtaining a verbal work related references from recent employers DO NOT APPLY UNLESS YOU HAVE THE REQUIRED EXPERIENCE LISTED ABOVE. Only candidates with the specified experience above will be corresponded with and if you do not receive a reply within 7 days, your application was unsuccessful. Please forward a comprehensive and UPDATED cv (starting with current position) with a head & shoulders photo. Recent contactable references must be provided. Only open to South African Citizens.