Zululand: Lodge Manager | Luxury Safari Lodge | Zululand, Kzn | Lb posted by Kendrick Recruitment

LODGE MANAGER | LUXURY SAFARI LODGE | ZULULAND, KZN Kendrick Recruitment is seeking an experienced and hands-on Lodge Manager to join a luxury safari lodge situated in the Zululand region of KwaZulu-Natal. This is a unique opportunity for a strong all-round hospitality professional with leadership ability, operational expertise, and a passion for the bush. Salary: ± R20,000 Accommodation (negotiable depending on experience and skill) Accommodation: Live-in position Location: Zululand, KwaZulu-Natal KEY RESPONSIBILITIES • Daily lodge and farm operations oversight • Guest check-in coordination and overall guest experience management • Staff supervision and team leadership across departments • Oversee kitchen operations and food preparation (limited menu offering) • Quality control of guest units, pool, vehicles, maintenance, and projects • Stock control and operational inventory management • Coordinate ranger schedules, guest flow, and maintenance teams • Liaise with reserve management and HQ reporting • Ensure smooth coordination between all lodge departments OPERATIONAL AND EMERGENCY SUPPORT • Assist with all-round lodge operations during emergencies • Support response to elephant damage (e.g. water pipes and infrastructure) • Assist with floods, road access issues, dam and fire situations • Support security operations and anti-poaching teams when required • Ensure lodge continuity during unpredictable bush conditions REQUIREMENTS • Proven experience in lodge or hospitality management (safari environment preferred) • Strong leadership and staff management skills • Must have some culinary experience (limited menu support required) • Hands-on, adaptable, and operationally strong • Ability to manage multiple departments simultaneously • Calm and effective under pressure in remote environments • Strong problem-solving and communication skills WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR A grounded, proactive lodge manager who is comfortable being fully involved in daily operations. Someone who leads by example, remains calm in challenging bush conditions, and ensures exceptional guest experiences while keeping all lodge functions running smoothly.