Lodge Anchor – Supervisory Role

A prestigious luxury game reserve in the Free State is seeking a dedicated Lodge Anchor to support the Lodge Manager in overseeing daily operations. This family-run conservation project offers an exclusive experience for wildlife photographers and requires a candidate with strong leadership, operational expertise and a passion for hospitality and conservation.

Job Summary

The Lodge Anchor plays a crucial role in ensuring exceptional guest experiences and maintaining high standards across all departments. Responsibilities include managing staff, coordinating guest services and ensuring seamless lodge operations while upholding sustainability practices. This role offers opportunities for growth into an Assistant Lodge Manager position.

Key Responsibilities

Guest Experience & Hospitality

• Ensure world-class service standards and host meals in a professional environment.
  
• Greet and interact with guests, addressing concerns or special requests promptly.
  
• Oversee guest check-in and check-out processes.
  
• Curate unique experiences for guests, particularly wildlife photographers.
  
• Welcome guests back from safaris, ensuring smooth transitions between activities.
  

Operations & Administration

• Support the Lodge Manager in overseeing front-of-house, housekeeping, food and beverage, and maintenance teams.
  
• Monitor daily lodge activities to ensure efficiency across departments.
  
• Assist with stock control and financial tracking.
  
• Maintain compliance with health, safety and environmental regulations.
  
• Capture operational data and assist with month-end procedures.
  

Staff Management & Development

• Supervise and lead teams to maintain high service standards.
  
• Assist with scheduling shifts and ensuring optimal coverage.
  
• Conduct training programmes to enhance service standards and implement SOPs.
  
• Provide constructive feedback and actively develop team members’ skills.
  

Financial Oversight

• Assist in managing lodge budgets and stock procedures.
  
• Monitor expenditures and optimise resources.
  
• Ensure financial accountability through accurate record-keeping.
  

Sustainability & Conservation

• Support sustainability initiatives, including waste reduction and eco-friendly practices.
  
• Oversee solar power systems and conservation-focused operations.
  

Requirements

• Minimum 3–5 years’ experience in a hospitality management role, preferably in a luxury lodge environment.
  
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
  
• Passion for guest service and attention to detail.
  
• Solid understanding of lodge operations, both front-of-house and back-of-house.
  
• Experience with reservations systems and property management software (e.g., PANstrat, ResRequest, Semper).
  
• Financial acumen and basic accounting knowledge.
  
• Knowledge of conservation and sustainable tourism practices advantageous.
  
• Valid driver’s licence.
  
• Flexibility to work weekends and holidays.
  
• Ability to work independently and manage operations in the absence of the Lodge Manager.
  
• Strong personal and time management skills.
  
• Ability to work under pressure in a remote, high-performance environment.
  
• Excellent communication skills.