Job Summary
Front Office Manager - 5-Star Boutique Seaside Hotel - Hermanus, Western Cape Kendrick Recruitment is searching for a polished, experienced and warmly professional Front Office Manager for one of South Africa's most celebrated coastal hotels - a 5-star boutique landmark dramatically situated on Hermanus' iconic cliff path overlooking Walker Bay, forming part of a prestigious collection of iconic South African luxury hotels. With 40 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, a renowned restaurant, two saltwater pools and a spa, this recently refreshed property offers guests an unforgettable blend of timeless elegance, exceptional cuisine and world-class whale watching - attracting a predominantly international guest profile who arrive with high expectations. The Front Office Manager will be the standard-bearer of this guest experience - leading the front office team with professionalism, warmth and precision. Please note: Candidates already based in Hermanus, the Overberg or the broader Garden Route and Western Cape are strongly preferred. This is a live-out position. Minimum Requirements: Minimum 3 to 5 years' Front Office management experience within a 5-star hotel or luxury boutique property - essential Proven track record of leading a front office team to deliver an exceptional guest experience Proficient in Opera or similar PMS - essential Strong reservations, check-in, check-out and billing management experience Excellent written and verbal English communication skills - additional languages advantageous Sound revenue management understanding including room upselling and rate management Experience managing and developing a small front office team Professional; impeccably presented and naturally warm with guests Strong administrative and reporting ability Flexible to work shifts including weekends and public holidays Stable work history with outstanding, contactable references Key Responsibilities: Lead and manage all front office operations to the highest 5-star standard Oversee all check-ins, check-outs, room allocations and billing with meticulous accuracy Manage and develop the front office team through training, scheduling and performance management Handle VIP arrivals, guest preferences and special requests with personalised attention Manage all guest feedback, queries and complaints with professionalism and care Oversee reservations management in Opera and maintain accurate room availability Liaise closely with housekeeping, F&B, spa and management to ensure seamless daily operations Manage front office reporting, night audit oversight and financial controls Drive room upselling and support revenue management objectives Ensure full compliance with health, safety and hotel operational standards Represent the hotel's brand values in every guest and team interaction Package: Competitive salary dependent on experience Live-out position Should you feel you are the right fit for this role, please apply with your updated CV, contactable references and a recent head and shoulders photo ASAP! ? Please Note: If you do not receive feedback within 7 working days, kindly consider your application unsuccessful.