Assistant Lodge Manager

We are seeking a passionate, operational, and guest-focused Assistant Lodge Manager to join our hospitality team. Operating within a world-class 5-star luxury reserve, this role is perfect for a natural leader who thrives in a remote bush environment and is deeply committed to delivering world-class service while supporting conservation-driven tourism. Reporting directly to the Lodge Manager, you will oversee, coordinate, and direct the day-to-day service, operations, logistics, and guest activities. You will act as a primary point of contact for our diverse international clientele, ensuring the highest level of personalized attention while driving team performance. Key Responsibilities Guest Experience & Relations

• Maintain the highest standard of guest relations , ensuring ultimate personal attention and an authentic "at home" luxury experience.
• Welcome, brief, and host guests on arrival, coordinating their movements, special requests, and itineraries throughout their stay.
• Actively monitor guest feedback and proactively resolve any queries or complaints with diplomacy and a professional, calm outlook under pressure.
• Collaborate closely with the culinary team on special dietary requirements and tailor bespoke dining setups or events.

Lodge Operations & Logistics

• Oversee daily lodge operations including Front of House, food and beverage service, accommodation readiness, and public area presentation.
• Assume full responsibility for the overall performance of the lodge functions in the absence of the Lodge Manager.
• Work hand-in-hand with the Field Guide and safari management teams to schedule and align seamless guest activities with daily lodge routines.
• Implement and enforce meticulous health, safety, and eco-conscious protection protocols across all guest and service areas.

Team Leadership & Development

• Supervise, motivate, and mentor the lodge department teams to consistently deliver the property's 5-star standard of excellence.
• Assist in staff rostering, performance evaluation, and onboarding, while facilitating continuous learning and development initiatives.
• Foster a collaborative workspace culture rooted in transparency, fairness, empathy, and respect.

Financial & Administrative Control

• Manage rigorous stock control, physical monthly inventory takes, and beverage ordering systems.
• Support the Lodge Manager in preparing budgets, tracking operational expenses, and implementing cost-saving measures.
• Maintain accurate daily logs, administration reports, and updates on Property Management Systems (PMS) and POS terminals.

Requirements

Minimum Requirements

• Qualifications: A Degree or Diploma in Hospitality or Hotel Management is essential.
  
• Experience: Minimum 3 to 5 years of hospitality management experience within a 5-star luxury safari lodge or boutique remote resort .
  
• Technical Skills: Fully competent in Property Management Systems (PMS) and Point of Sale (POS) software.
  
• Licences: Valid South African Drivers Licence is non-negotiable.
  
• Adaptability: Ability and willingness to live, work, and thrive in an isolated, remote rural bush environment.
  
• Endurance: High levels of mental endurance and a flexible, solutions-driven approach to operational ambiguity.
  

Benefits

What We Offer

• Competitive industry-related monthly salary.
  
• Single, live-in accommodation provided directly on the reserve.
  
• Contribution towards a company provident fund.
  
• Continued learning, career growth, and development opportunities within an inspiring wildlife sanctuary setting.