Lodge Manager

SUMMARY:
Purpose of the Role
To lead and oversee all aspects of the lodge’s daily operations, ensuring high-end service delivery, exceptional guest experiences, efficient business performance, and alignment with luxury safari standards and conservation values.
Key Duties & Responsibilities

1. Operational Leadership

• Oversee all lodge departments including Front Office/Reception, Guest Services, Housekeeping, Food & Beverage, Kitchen, Maintenance, Guiding & Activities.
• Ensure smooth coordination and communication between departments to deliver seamless guest experiences.
• Monitor and uphold health, safety, hygiene, and environmental standards across the property.
• Maintain lodge facilities, vehicles, equipment, and infrastructure in pristine condition.

1. Guest Experience & Service Excellence

• Act as the face of the lodge, personally welcoming guests, hosting throughout their stay, and ensuring personalised service.
• Handle guest feedback, concerns, claims and special requests promptly and professionally.
• Create and oversee unique, memorable experiences that reflect the lodge’s luxury brand and safari environment.
• Provide VIP hosting and build strong guest relationships for repeat business and positive reviews.

1. Staff Leadership & Human Resources

• Lead, train, mentor, and motivate a multifunctional team to maintain high standards of service and professionalism.
• Manage staff rosters, performance appraisals, training programs, and disciplinary procedures.
• Foster a positive, inclusive team culture and support staff development and engagement.

1. Financial & Administrative Management

• Oversee budget management, cost control, revenue tracking, and financial reporting to owners or senior management.
• Manage stock control, procurement, and supplier relationships, ensuring optimal inventory levels.
• Prepare regular operational performance reports and data on occupancy, revenue, and guest satisfaction.
• Ensure efficient administrative systems (reservations, billing, payroll, compliance documentation).

1. Brand Standards & Compliance

• Ensure that service quality, SOPs, and luxury standards are consistently upheld across all guest-facing areas.
• Maintain compliance with legal, health & safety, and environmental requirements, including conservation and sustainability practices.

1. Conservation & Community Engagement

• Promote and integrate conservation values into the guest experience and lodge operations.
• Build positive relationships with local communities, stakeholders, and partners where relevant.

POSITION INFO:
Qualifications & Experience

• Diploma or Degree in Hospitality Management, Tourism, Business, or related field preferred.
• 5–7+ years of progressive experience in lodge or hotel management, with significant exposure to luxury or 5-star lodge operations.
• Strong background in leadership, guest service excellence, financial oversight, and remote lodge management.
• Experience managing multicultural teams in remote environments is advantageous.

• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Outstanding guest-centric attitude with high emotional intelligence.
• Strong organisational, problem-solving, and multitasking ability.
• Financial acumen and administrative proficiency (MS Office, PMS systems like Opera, Panstrat, etc.).
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt in a remote, bush-based setting.