Lodge Manager - Luxury Private Game Reserve - Eastern Cape | Lb

Lodge Manager - Luxury Private Game Reserve - Eastern Cape Kendrick Recruitment is searching for an experienced, guest-focused and people-driven Lodge Manager for a well-known luxury Big Five private game reserve in the Eastern Cape - one of South Africas premier malaria-free safari destinations. The Lodge Manager will be primarily based at an intimate 6-room lodge accommodating families and children, while also providing operational support across two additional properties on the reserve - one catering primarily to couples. This role demands genuine Lodge Manager experience, outstanding guest relations and strong people leadership. Financial and budget management is handled by the GM and operations team, allowing this role to focus on what matters most: the guest experience and the team behind it. Minimum Requirements: Minimum 5 years experience in a Lodge Manager role at a luxury safari lodge - essential and non-negotiable Proven track record in guest experience delivery and personalised service at a luxury level Strong staff management, training, scheduling and performance management skills Experience managing across multiple lodge departments including F&B, housekeeping and guest services Excellent knowledge of Food and Beverage and lodge service standards Proficient in ResRequest and Sage POS - essential Computer literate with strong MS Office skills, particularly Excel Valid drivers licence - essential (manual vehicle driving confidence required) Own vehicle - preferred Excellent English communication skills - written and verbal Knowledge of conservation and sustainable lodge practices advantageous Positive; energetic, caring and solutions-oriented personality Stable work history with outstanding, contactable references Key Responsibilities: ? Guest Experience Ensure the highest standards of personalised guest satisfaction across all touchpoints throughout each stay Resolve any guest issues or concerns promptly and professionally Maintain exceptional attention to detail throughout the full guest journey Oversee guest experiences across accommodation, dining, activities and recreational offerings ? Staff Management & Leadership Supervise; train, schedule and performance manage the lodge team across all departments Foster a culture of teamwork, accountability and genuine care Lead by example and maintain a positive, energetic team environment Support and assist across all departments as operationally required Operations & Compliance Oversee daily lodge operations across the primary eco-lodge and provide operational support to the villa and river lodge properties Enforce health, safety and hygiene standards and procedures Stay updated on industry trends, regulations and best practices Uphold the reserves brand values and operational standards throughout Package: Gross Salary: R20,000 to R30,000 per month (DOE & negotiable) Food allowance: R780 per month Medical Aid: Discovery (employer contribution) Provident Fund: included Live-in: Accommodation provided Rotation: 6 weeks on / 2 weeks off Leave: Annual, Sick and Family Responsibility leave Should you feel you are the right fit for this role, please apply with your updated CV, contactable references and a recent head and shoulders photo ASAP! ? Please Note: If you do not receive feedback within 7 working days, kindly consider your application unsuccessful.