Timbavati: Workshop Manager posted by Kendrick Recruitment

Workshop Manager | Luxury Safari Lodge | Timbavati

Kendrick Recruitment is currently seeking an experienced and hands-on Workshop Manager for a luxury safari lodge based in the Timbavati region.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a qualified mechanical professional with strong leadership skills and extensive experience managing vehicle fleets, workshop operations, generators and maintenance teams. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the reliability, safety and efficiency of the lodge’s fleet and workshop operations while maintaining the highest operational standards.

Location: Timbavati
Accommodation: Live-in
Salary: Negotiable depending on experience

Key Responsibilities

Fleet Management

Oversee the maintenance, servicing and repair of all vehicles and plant equipment
Implement and manage vehicle inspection programmes and service schedules
Ensure maximum vehicle availability and minimise downtime
Conduct quality control inspections and testing of all serviced vehicles
Test drive vehicles following maintenance to ensure the highest workmanship standards
Monitor fleet condition and provide recommendations regarding repairs and replacement planning
Liaise with departmental managers regarding repair costs and maintenance schedules
Ensure all guest-facing vehicles remain in excellent operational and presentation condition
Manage outsourced repairs and ensure quality standards are met
Maintain accurate service records and vehicle files
Ensure all vehicles remain licensed and roadworthy

Generators & Infrastructure

Oversee maintenance and servicing of all standby generators
Ensure generator reliability and operational readiness at all times
Monitor generator performance and preventative maintenance schedules

Administration & Financial Management

Conduct monthly stock takes and inventory control
Manage workshop budgets and cost controls
Process invoices, recharges and workshop-related financial administration
Maintain accurate records of workshop expenditure and stock usage
Manage vehicle files, service records and supplier documentation
Oversee workshop petty cash and monthly reconciliations
Ensure appropriate stock levels are maintained while controlling costs
Manage procurement of parts and consumables
Monitor supplier pricing and ensure cost-effective purchasing practices

Sustainability & Compliance

Monitor fuel usage, generator efficiency and waste management processes
Maintain records for sustainability reporting and audits
Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency and reduce environmental impact
Ensure environmentally responsible handling and disposal of oils, parts and hazardous materials
Maintain compliance with environmental and operational standards

Workshop Team Management

Recruit, onboard and develop workshop staff
Conduct performance reviews and staff development programmes
Identify training requirements and facilitate skills development
Manage leave schedules, attendance and timekeeping
Address disciplinary matters in accordance with company procedures
Foster a positive, motivated and high-performing team environment
Lead regular staff meetings and communicate operational updates effectively

Health & Safety

Ensure full compliance with workshop health and safety standards
Maintain safe working conditions and proper use of PPE
Ensure equipment is maintained, certified and safely operated
Coordinate emergency preparedness and first aid readiness
Uphold company policies, procedures and safety regulations

Requirements

Qualified and experienced Vehicle Mechanic with strong technical expertise
Minimum 35 years’ experience in a Workshop Management role within a similar-sized operation
Extensive knowledge of vehicle maintenance, diagnostics and repairs
Experience managing fleets, generators and workshop operations
Strong administrative and financial management skills
Excellent organisational and planning abilities
Proven leadership and team management experience
Valid South African Driver’s Licence with PDP essential
Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet deadlines

Key Skills & Competencies

Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Excellent attention to detail
High standards of workmanship and quality control
Strong leadership and people management ability
Proactive and solution-driven mindset
Ability to think laterally and resolve technical challenges
Professional, honest and highly organised
Commitment to exceptional service and operational excellence

Personal Attributes

Energetic and self-motivated
Honest and dependable with strong integrity
Career-driven and ambitious
Team-oriented with strong mentoring abilities
Willing to share knowledge and develop others
Adaptable and resilient under pressure
Passionate about maintaining high operational standards

What’s on Offer

Live-in position within a luxury safari lodge environment
Opportunity to manage a diverse fleet and workshop operation
Dynamic and rewarding work environment
Competitive salary package based on experience
Long-term career growth opportunities

To apply, please send your CV

Please note: Due to the high volume of applications received, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you do not hear from us within 7 working days, please consider your application unsuccessful.