Lodge Manager

SUMMARY:
A luxurious and elegant lodge is seeking an experienced and guest-focused LODGE MANAGER to join their team.

POSITION INFO:
This is a senior, hands-on leadership role for someone who thrives on being visible on the floor, building strong relationships with guests, and leading a team to deliver a seamless, five-star safari experience. You'll take full ownership of the guest journey while working closely with every department to keep the lodge running like clockwork.

Key Responsibilities
Guest Experience & Service

• Be a visible and hands-on host, meeting and engaging with guests daily to ensure a personalized and unforgettable stay.
• Maintain the established standards of guest care, guest delight, and guest feedback management, always turning guest comments into opportunities for improvement.
• Respond promptly and graciously to all guest queries, complaints, and special requests; use all feedback as a learning platform.
• Act as the primary contact for high-profile guests, VIPs, travel agents, and media visits as required.
• Conduct regular guest briefings and ensure all activities and experiences run seamlessly.

• Take full responsibility for all lodge operations in the absence of the General Manager.
• Ensure consistent communication and alignment with all other lodge departments — food & beverage, housekeeping, guiding, guest relations, and maintenance — to ensure seamless service delivery.
• Ensure departmental procedures and service standards are current and in line with company SOPs and guest expectations.
• Maintain cleanliness, orderliness, and presentation of the lodge at all times.

• Lead, mentor, and motivate the guest services team, setting clear goals and performance expectations.
• Develop and support talent, including identifying and training team members for career growth.
• Conduct regular performance reviews, ensuring transparent communication, two-way feedback, and follow up on agreed personal development plans.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive culture across all lodge departments.

• Support accurate financial processes including daily expenditure control, stock control, ordering, and stock-take processes.
• Monitor guest services costs and recommend efficiencies without compromising guest satisfaction.
• Adhere to par stock levels and manage supplier relations for guest service products.

• Maintain adherence to all company health, safety, and sustainability policies — including fire, hygiene, and HACCP.
• Ensure full team compliance with the company's sustainability initiatives around water, waste, energy, and local partnerships.
• Implement and follow all HR policies and procedures including roster management, leave, overtime, and discipline.

• Attend regular management meetings to report on guest feedback, lodge service performance, and staff development.
• Prepare timely and accurate reports for the General Manager and support office as required.

• Minimum of 3-5 years' experience in a senior lodge management or guest services role in a 5-star safari or boutique hotel environment.
• Proven track record in delivering exceptional guest experiences.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills — a natural motivator and team player.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• High level of professionalism, emotional maturity, and flexibility.
• Organised, with exceptional attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
• Solid knowledge of lodge operations and luxury guest expectations.
• Valid driver's license and own transport essential.
• Computer literate (MS Office Suite) and familiar with property management systems.

• Demonstrate respect, care and consideration for others, embracing the spirit of Ubuntu and contributing positively to the team.
• Communicate openly, honestly and professionally, and be willing to both give and receive constructive feedback.
• Take ownership of your responsibilities, honour your commitments and see challenges through to resolution.
• Arrive prepared, organised and focused, consistently delivering work to a high standard with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Look, listen and take action by identifying opportunities to improve experiences, processes and outcomes.
• Proactively support colleagues and step in where help is needed to contribute to collective success.
• Remain adaptable, resilient and solution-oriented, embracing learning and new ways of doing things.
• Create meaningful experiences for guests, colleagues and communities through professionalism, integrity and care.