Thabazimbi: Head Guide – Thabazimbi posted by Hospitality and Outdoor Ltd

Hospitality and Outdoor – Head Guide Thabazimbi, Limpopo An established luxury lodge in Limpopo is seeking an experienced and professional Head Guide to oversee the full operations of the Guides & Safari Department. The ideal candidate is a confident leader with strong guiding expertise, outstanding guest service abilities, and a passion for conservation, mentorship, and high‑quality safari experiences. This role requires someone who thrives in a high‑standards environment and is committed to developing future guiding talent. Requirements FGASA Level 2 & Trails Guide (Essential) ARH & Rifle Proficiency First Aid Level 2 Valid Driver’s License PrDP Previous experience as an Assistant Head Guide or Head Guide Strong knowledge of FGASA standards and professional guiding culture Excellent planning, budgeting, and administrative abilities Strong communication skills (written & verbal) High attention to detail and hygiene standards Strong leadership, interpersonal, and mentoring skills Ability to work accurately under pressure Professional, adaptable, proactive, and solution‑driven Strong people skills: patience, tolerance, emotional control Able to receive constructive feedback openly Team player with a positive attitude and passion for development Duties Guiding Operations & Leadership Oversee and train all guiding functions according to internal and FGASA standards. Conduct safety briefings, game drives, bush walks, tracking, spoor ID, and ecological presentations Manage drive schedules, standby duties, and back‑up allocations Serve as Responsible Person for firearms, maintaining licensing and departmental proficiency Oversee workshop operations and ensure vehicle maintenance standards are met Lead departmental meetings and attend cross‑functional meetings Assist with wildlife‑focused content for social media Act as incident coordinator for medical emergencies, fires, floods, or evacuations Training, Development & Mentorship Mentor Field Guides and Trainee Guides toward higher qualification levels Compile progress reports and communicate development feedback Identify high‑potential individuals for succession planning Implement departmental training programmes using internal/external trainers Facilitate cross‑property training within the group Lead performance reviews, appraisals, and development plans Participate in Head Guide forums and mentorship workshops Conservation Collaboration Work closely with conservation teams to support reserve initiatives Integrate conservation messaging into daily guiding and guest interactions Provide operational insight during conservation and reserve meetings Guest Care & Service Excellence Ensure guest preferences are gathered and communicated pre‑arrival Capture guest feedback and pass information to Management Report all guest complaints immediately and ensure follow‑through Package Market‑aligned salary Live‑in accommodation Industry‑standard professional benefits Training and development opportunities Strong growth potential based on performance and mentorship