Lodge Manager

The Lodge is seeking a dynamic, hands-on Lodge Manager who thrives in both guest-facing and operational environments. This unique role blends the warmth and leadership of lodge management with the precision and accountability of administrative oversight.

If you’re a natural host with a head for numbers, a heart for hospitality, and the resilience to lead in a remote luxury setting, we’d love to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Management:
– Oversee daily lodge operations, ensuring seamless guest experiences and efficient team coordination
– Lead and mentor staff across departments, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability
– Maintain high standards of service, cleanliness, and safety throughout the lodge
– Accurately capture and manage guest reservations, ensuring all booking details are complete and correct while liaising remotely with the central reservations office in Johannesburg
– Build and maintain strong relationships with travel agents and tour operators to support repeat business and positive brand representation
– Oversee internal guest transfers and room allocations, ensuring smooth coordination and optimal guest experience
– Perform duty manager shifts, including hosting guests and supervising service teams to ensure seamless daily operations
– Drive on-site sales of beverages and curios, maintaining stock levels and promoting guest engagement
– Coordinate and execute bush experiences such as picnics, gin stops, and bespoke outdoor setups, tailored to guest preferences
– Demonstrate initiative and creativity in planning and delivering memorable moments for special occasions and celebrations

Administrative & Financial Management
– Manage lodge budgets, revenue tracking, and expense control to ensure financial sustainability
– Prepare and submit accurate daily, weekly, and monthly financial and performance reports
– Reconcile petty cash, credit card transactions, and supplier invoices, maintaining transparent records
– Monitor Property Management System (PMS) trial balances and resolve discrepancies promptly
– Support internal and external audits by ensuring compliance with financial controls and standard operating procedures
– Oversee inventory management and conduct regular stock takes across departments
– Investigate financial variances and implement proactive cost-control measures to optimize lodge operations

Guest Experience
– Personally welcome guests and ensure their stay exceeds expectations
– Handle guest feedback with professionalism and empathy
– Uphold confidentiality and protect guest and lodge property

Staff Leadership
– Lead recruitment, onboarding, and performance management of lodge and camp staff.
– Conduct training, appraisals, and disciplinary procedures in line with company policy.
– Foster a culture of excellence, respect, and continuous development.
– Build strong interdepartmental relationships to ensure operational effectiveness

Compliance & Sustainability
– Actively participates in the Health and Safety committee to uphold workplace standards.
– Well-versed in Employment Equity principles and reporting requirements.
– Demonstrates a solid understanding of labour law and confidently manages disciplinary procedures when required.
– Ensure adherence to SANParks regulations, environmental standards, and safety protocols.
– Maintain up-to-date licences and permits for camp operations and staff.
– Champion eco-conscious practices and community development initiatives.

Health & Safety
– Implement emergency procedures and ensure staff training and drills.
– Maintain compliance with OHS legislation and lodge standards.

Reporting & Communication
– Maintain clear communication channels with staff, guests, and senior leadership.
– Provide regular updates on lodge performance, guest feedback, and operational incidents.
– Support internal and external audits and ensure documentation accuracy.

Continuous Improvement
– Analyse feedback to identify areas for enhancement.
– Introduce innovative ideas aligned with the Lodge brand.

Minimum Experience & Requirements

• 3-5 years’ experience in luxury lodge or hospitality management, with strong administrative exposure
• Strong leadership,…