SUMMARY:
Assistant operation managers to be based in the lodges (Luxury safari lodges)

POSITION INFO:

Assistant Operations Manager

Location: Limpopo, South Africa

Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time

Primary Industry: Travel, Leisure, Tourism and Hospitality

Secondary Industry: Travel, Leisure, Tourism and Hospitality

Job Description

The Assistant Operations Manager supports the Operations Manager in overseeing daily operations within the Lodges and reports directly to the operations manager. This role ensures efficient service delivery, adherence to quality standards, and continuous improvement of operational processes. The postholder collaborates with various departments to maintain excellent customer experiences and meet business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in managing day-to-day operational activities to ensure smooth and effective business functioning.
• Coordinate with teams across departments to streamline workflows and optimise resource allocation.
• Monitor service quality and customer satisfaction, implementing improvements when necessary.
• Support the development and enforcement of operational policies, procedures and standards.
• Analyse operational data and prepare reports to inform decision-making and track performance metrics.
• Contribute to staff training and development to enhance team capabilities and service delivery.
• Participate in budgeting and financial monitoring to ensure cost-effective operations.
• Ensure compliance with relevant health, safety and regulatory requirements.
• Assist in managing supplier and partner relationships to maintain service excellence.
• Support the Operations Manager in project implementation and change management initiatives.

Required Qualifications

• A relevant qualification in business management, hospitality, tourism or a related field.
• Demonstrable experience in operations management within the travel, leisure, tourism or hospitality industries.

Education

• A minimum of a National Diploma or equivalent in business, hospitality, tourism, or a related discipline.
• Additional certifications in operations management or customer service are advantageous.

Experience

• At least three years’ experience in a supervisory or managerial role within the travel, leisure, tourism or hospitality sectors.
• Experience in managing teams and coordinating multi-disciplinary operational activities.
• Proven track record in delivering high standards of customer service and operational efficiency.

Knowledge and Skills

• Strong organisational and planning abilities with attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of liaising with diverse stakeholders.
• Competency in analysing operational data and producing insightful reports.
• Problem-solving skills with the ability to work proactively under pressure.
• Good understanding of health and safety regulations as they apply to the industry.
• Proficiency in standard office software and operational management tools.
• Ability to lead and motivate staff effectively.

Preferred Qualifications

• A degree in business administration, hospitality management, or tourism.
• Membership or accreditation from recognised industry bodies.
• Experience working within the South African travel and tourism market is advantageous.

Working Conditions

• The role is based in Limpopo and requires full-time hours with occasional flexibility to meet operational demands.
• The postholder may be required to attend meetings and site visits across various locations within the region.
• Work is primarily office-based with some exposure to operational environments such as hotels, resorts or tourist sites.
• Occasional weekend or public holiday work may be necessary in line with business needs.