Assistant Lodge Manager

Assistant Lodge Manager

Luxury Lodge | Greater Kruger

2-Month Contract | Salary: R18,000 Negotiable DOE | Live-In Position

Kendrick Recruitment is currently seeking an experienced and service-driven Assistant Lodge Manager for a luxury lodge situated in the Greater Kruger region.

This is an exciting 2-month contract opportunity for a hospitality professional with strong operational expertise, exceptional leadership skills, and a passion for delivering outstanding guest experiences. Working closely with the General Manager, the successful candidate will play a key role in overseeing the day-to-day operations of the lodge, ensuring exceptional service standards, operational efficiency, team development, and guest satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

Guest Experience & Service Standards

• Oversee the complete guest journey from arrival to departure.

• Ensure all departments consistently deliver exceptional service standards.

• Handle guest concerns and complaints professionally and efficiently.

• Manage VIP guest experiences and special requests.

• Coordinate and communicate all external guest activities and excursions.

• Ensure guest confidentiality and data security standards are maintained.

• Monitor service delivery and implement improvements where required.

• Maintain a visible management presence during meal service periods.

Lodge Operations Management

• Support the General Manager with the implementation of operational plans and objectives.

• Oversee the daily operations of all lodge departments, including Housekeeping, Food & Beverage, Front Office, Maintenance and Laundry.

• Lead daily operational meetings and departmental handovers.

• Ensure all Standard Operating Procedures are followed consistently.

• Monitor lodge standards and identify opportunities for operational improvements.

• Maintain close communication with the Reservations team regarding arrivals, departures and special guest requirements.

• Assist with the implementation and monitoring of maintenance and preventative upkeep programmes.

Financial Management

• Support budget management and cost control initiatives.

• Ensure operational expenses remain within approved budgets.

• Assist with inventory control and stock management.

• Manage petty cash accurately and ensure reconciliations are completed.

• Monitor staffing levels and scheduling to maximise operational efficiency.

• Work closely with Finance and Procurement teams to maintain inventory and par stock levels.

• Support revenue optimisation through upselling and cross-selling opportunities.

People Leadership & Team Development

• Supervise and support lodge staff during shifts.

• Assist with staff recruitment, onboarding and induction processes.

• Provide ongoing coaching and on-the-job training.

• Support performance management and employee development initiatives.

• Conduct counselling sessions and manage minor disciplinary matters when required.

• Ensure all staff maintain professional presentation and grooming standards.

• Promote a positive team culture and strong employee engagement.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with health, safety, labour and environmental legislation.

• Maintain emergency preparedness and response procedures.

• Uphold all lodge safety and security standards for guests and staff.

• Ensure confidential information is handled appropriately and securely.

• Assist with incident reporting and injury-on-duty documentation where required.

Maintenance Oversight

• Work closely with the Maintenance team to ensure all facilities are maintained to the highest standard.

• Address urgent maintenance issues and equipment failures promptly.

• Support the upkeep of lodge infrastructure, guest areas, gardens and swimming pools.

• Monitor maintenance projects and preventative maintenance schedules.

Systems & Technology

• Ensure effective utilisation of lodge management and reporting systems.

• Support the implementation of operational technologies and system improvements.

• Utilise reporting and communication tools to enhance operational efficiency.

• Identify opportunities for innovation and service enhancement.

• Ensure guest accommodation systems and operational processes function effectively.

Reporting & Communication

• Compile and submit operational reports as required.

• Report guest complaints, incidents and operational risks in accordance with company procedures.

• Represent the lodge in management meetings and forums.

• Maintain effective communication across all departments to ensure seamless operations.

• Ensure maintenance issues, equipment failures and operational concerns are reported and addressed promptly.

Requirements

• Diploma or Degree in Hospitality Management or a related field.

• Minimum of 5 years' experience in a senior management role within a luxury lodge or hospitality environment.

• Comprehensive knowledge of all lodge departments, including Food & Beverage, Housekeeping, Front Office and Maintenance.

• Strong financial management, budgeting and cost control skills.

• Excellent leadership, people management and problem-solving abilities.

• Outstanding guest relations and communication skills.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office, PMS and POS systems.

• Experience working with lodge management systems such as ResRequest, Semper or PANstrat.

• Fluent in English; additional languages would be advantageous.

• Valid driver's licence.

• Willingness to work shifts, weekends and public holidays.

• Comfortable living and working in a remote lodge environment.

Core Competencies

• Strong operational and strategic thinking abilities.

• Excellent interpersonal and leadership skills.

• Financial literacy and sound decision-making capabilities.

• Calm, professional and solution-oriented approach under pressure.

• Passion for hospitality, guest service and conservation.

• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.

• High levels of integrity, professionalism and accountability.

• Cultural awareness and inclusiveness.

Package

• 2-month contract position.

• Salary: R18,000 Negotiable Depending on Experience.

• Live-in accommodation provided.

• Opportunity to join a respected luxury lodge within the Greater Kruger region.