Lodge Manager (Permanent)

Job Title: Lodge Manager Start Date: 2026-07-21 - 2026-11-24 Vacancy Type: Permanent WDH002439 Sectors: Hospitality Management Location: Mpumalanga , Kruger National Park Salary: Brief: kruger national park|lodge manager|management|sabi sands A luxurious and elegant lodge is seeking an experienced and guest-focused LODGE MANAGER to join their team. Detail: This is a senior, hands-on leadership role for someone who thrives on being visible on the floor, building strong relationships with guests, and leading a team to deliver a seamless, five-star safari experience. You'll take full ownership of the guest journey while working closely with every department to keep the lodge running like clockwork. Key Responsibilities Guest Experience & Service Be a visible and hands-on host, meeting and engaging with guests daily to ensure a personalized and unforgettable stay. Maintain the established standards of guest care, guest delight, and guest feedback management, always turning guest comments into opportunities for improvement. Respond promptly and graciously to all guest queries, complaints, and special requests; use all feedback as a learning platform. Act as the primary contact for high-profile guests, VIPs, travel agents, and media visits as required. Conduct regular guest briefings and ensure all activities and experiences run seamlessly. Lodge Operations Take full responsibility for all lodge operations in the absence of the General Manager. Ensure consistent communication and alignment with all other lodge departments — food & beverage, housekeeping, guiding, guest relations, and maintenance — to ensure seamless service delivery. Ensure departmental procedures and service standards are current and in line with company SOPs and guest expectations. Maintain cleanliness, orderliness, and presentation of the lodge at all times. Staff Leadership & Development Lead, mentor, and motivate the guest services team, setting clear goals and performance expectations. Develop and support talent, including identifying and training team members for career growth. Conduct regular performance reviews, ensuring transparent communication, two-way feedback, and follow up on agreed personal development plans. Foster a collaborative and inclusive culture across all lodge departments. Financial & Stock Controls Support accurate financial processes including daily expenditure control, stock control, ordering, and stock-take processes. Monitor guest services costs and recommend efficiencies without compromising guest satisfaction. Adhere to par stock levels and manage supplier relations for guest service products. Compliance & Standards Maintain adherence to all company health, safety, and sustainability policies — including fire, hygiene, and HACCP. Ensure full team compliance with the company's sustainability initiatives around water, waste, energy, and local partnerships. Implement and follow all HR policies and procedures including roster management, leave, overtime, and discipline. Communication & Reporting Attend regular management meetings to report on guest feedback, lodge service performance, and staff development. Prepare timely and accurate reports for the General Manager and support office as required. Required Skills & Experience Minimum of 3-5 years' experience in a senior lodge management or guest services role in a 5-star safari or boutique hotel environment. Proven track record in delivering exceptional guest experiences. Strong leadership and interpersonal skills — a natural motivator and team player. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. High level of professionalism, emotional maturity, and flexibility. Organised, with exceptional attention to detail and problem-solving skills. Solid knowledge of lodge operations and luxury guest expectations. Valid driver's license and own transport essential. Computer literate (MS Office Suite) and familiar with property management systems. Maximising Your Impact Demonstrate respect, care and consideration for others, embracing the spirit of Ubuntu and contributing positively to the team. Communicate openly, honestly and professionally, and be willing to both give and receive constructive feedback. Take ownership of your responsibilities, honour your commitments and see challenges through to resolution. Arrive prepared, organised and focused, consistently delivering work to a high standard with accuracy and attention to detail. Look, listen and take action by identifying opportunities to improve experiences, processes and outcomes. Proactively support colleagues and step in where help is needed to contribute to collective success. Remain adaptable, resilient and solution-oriented, embracing learning and new ways of doing things. Create meaningful experiences for guests, colleagues and communities through professionalism, integrity and care. This is a live-in position with a 6/2 work cycle. Provident Fund and Medical Aid contribution included. show more... For more information please contact: Travis Holt Apply