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

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 Driver’s 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.