Thabazimbi: Lodge Manager posted by Kendrick Recruitment

Lodge Manager | Luxury Property Group | Thabazimbi

Kendrick Recruitment is seeking an experienced and dynamic Lodge Manager to join a luxury property group in Thabazimbi. This role is ideal for a hands-on hospitality professional with a proven track record in delivering world-class guest experiences in a five-star lodge environment.

Package:

• Salary: Negotiable depending on experience

• Live-in position

Key Responsibilities:

Guest Experience & Service

• Act as a visible, hands-on host, engaging with guests daily to ensure a personalised and memorable stay.

• Maintain the highest standards of guest care, delight, and feedback management, turning all comments into opportunities for improvement.

• Respond promptly and professionally to guest queries, complaints, and special requests.

• Serve as the primary contact for VIP guests, travel agents, and media visits.

• Conduct guest briefings and ensure all activities and experiences operate seamlessly.

Lodge Operations

• Take full responsibility for lodge operations in the absence of the General Manager.

• Ensure effective communication and alignment between all departments, including food & beverage, housekeeping, guiding, guest relations, and maintenance.

• Maintain departmental procedures and service standards in line with company SOPs.

• Ensure the lodge is always maintained to the highest standards of cleanliness, orderliness, and presentation.

Staff Leadership & Development

• Lead, mentor, and motivate the guest services team, setting clear goals and performance expectations.

• Identify, develop, and support talent for career growth.

• Conduct regular performance reviews with clear, two-way communication and follow up on development plans.

• Foster a collaborative and inclusive culture across all lodge departments.

Financial & Stock Controls

• Oversee daily expenditure control, stock management, ordering, and stock-taking processes.

• Monitor guest services costs and identify efficiencies without compromising quality.

• Maintain par stock levels and manage supplier relationships.

Compliance & Standards

• Ensure adherence to all health, safety, and sustainability policies, including fire, hygiene, and HACCP.

• Support the companys sustainability initiatives around water, waste, energy, and local partnerships.

• Implement and maintain HR policies, including rostering, leave, overtime, and discipline.

Communication & Reporting

• Attend management meetings and report on guest feedback, service performance, and staff development.

• Prepare accurate and timely reports for senior management and the support office.

Requirements:

• Minimum 35 years experience in senior lodge management or guest services within a five-star safari or boutique hotel environment.

• Proven track record in delivering exceptional guest experiences.

• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Professional, emotionally mature, and flexible.

• Highly organised with exceptional attention to detail and problem-solving skills.

• Solid knowledge of lodge operations and luxury hospitality standards.

• Valid drivers licence and own transport.

• Proficiency in MS Office Suite and familiarity with property management systems.

Personal Attributes:

• Exceptional attention to detail.

• Strong guest focus and commitment to delivering brand standards.

• Honest and effective communication skills.

• Positive, enthusiastic, and emotionally resilient team player.

• Excellent time management and self-discipline.

• Proactive, adaptable, and solutions-focused.

• Works well under pressure.

• Tolerant, patient, and open to constructive feedback.