Head Guide
Craven Cottage CC · Pongola
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Safari Operations
Lead and conduct daily game drives, bush walks, and other safari activities. Ensure all safari activities are conducted safely and professionally. Deliver informative and engaging wildlife interpretation. Plan daily game drive routes based on wildlife movements and guest preferences. Monitor weather conditions and operational risks. Ensure strict adherence to reserve rules and environmental regulations.
Guest Experience
Deliver exceptional guest service throughout every safari experience. Personally welcome guests and introduce safari programmes. Build meaningful relationships with guests through professional engagement. Cater safari experiences to guest interests, photographic opportunities, families, and special occasions. Handle guest concerns professionally and efficiently. Maintain 5* hospitality standards at all times.
Leadership & Team Management
Lead, mentor, coach, and develop the guiding team. Conduct regular performance reviews and coaching sessions. Coordinate guide rosters and daily allocations. Ensure guides maintain professional standards and appearance. Assist with recruitment and onboarding of new guides. Promote teamwork and collaboration across departments.
Wildlife Monitoring & Conservation
Record wildlife sightings accurately. Monitor animal behaviour and movements. Assist with conservation initiatives and reserve management programmes. Report injured animals, poaching activity, fence damage, and environmental concerns. Promote responsible tourism and environmental awareness.
Vehicle & Equipment Management
Ensure safari vehicles are maintained in excellent condition. Conduct daily vehicle inspections. Report maintenance requirements immediately. Monitor fuel usage. Maintain guiding equipment including:
• Radios • Binoculars • Spotlights • First Aid Kits • Recovery equipment Ensure all safety equipment is operational.
Safety & Compliance
Ensure compliance with all health and safety procedures. Conduct safety briefings before each activity. Maintain valid first aid certification. Ensure emergency equipment is available during all activities. Participate in emergency response training. Ensure compliance with all applicable legislation and reserve operating procedures.
Administration
Complete daily safari reports. Record wildlife sightings. Maintain vehicle logbooks. Complete maintenance reports. Submit incident reports where required. Maintain guide training records.
Training & Development
Conduct regular guide training sessions. Mentor junior guides and guide trainees. Keep the guiding team updated on wildlife knowledge, hospitality standards, and safety procedures. Coordinate ongoing skills development.
Requirements
Grade 12 (Matric). Relevant FGASA qualifications of Level 2 plus Full Trails Minimum 5 years' guiding experience within a luxury safari lodge. Valid First Aid Certificate. Previous supervisory or Head Guide experience preferred. Experience hosting international luxury guests. Valid South African Driver's Licence. Valid Professional Driving Permit (PrDP). Valid FGASA qualification. Valid Rifle Competency (where required). DEAT/NDT registration (where applicable).