Assistant Lodge Manager | Luxury Safari Lodge | Hluhluwe

Kendrick Recruitment is currently seeking a hands-on and dynamic Assistant Lodge Manager for a luxury safari lodge based in Hluhluwe.

This opportunity is ideal for a passionate hospitality professional who thrives in a fast-paced bush environment and is capable of delivering exceptional guest experiences while supporting the seamless day-to-day operation of a luxury lodge.

The successful candidate will be a strong all-rounder with the ability to multitask across departments, lead by example, and maintain outstanding service standards within a five-star hospitality environment.

Package:

• Live-in position with private accommodation provided
  
• Meals provided whilst on duty
  
• Uniforms provided and laundered by the lodge
  
• Wi-Fi included
  
• Transport to and from the staff village included
  
• Work cycle includes one week off per month
  
• 15 days annual leave per year
  
• Opportunity to live and work within a private Big Five reserve environment
  

Key Responsibilities:

Guest Experience & Hosting:

• Manage the full guest journey from arrival to departure
  
• Conduct personalised welcomes and room orientations
  
• Coordinate special occasions, private dining experiences, and guest requests
  
• Handle guest feedback and resolve operational issues professionally and efficiently
  
• Deliver exceptional and personalised guest experiences at all times
  

Operational Oversight:

• Act as the communication link between housekeeping, kitchen, maintenance, and guiding departments
  
• Conduct daily inspections of suites and public areas to ensure five-star standards are maintained
  
• Assist with daily lodge operations and service flow management during busy periods
  
• Support the smooth running of all lodge departments
  

Team Leadership:

• Supervise and mentor a multidisciplinary hospitality team
  
• Assist with staff training, development, and performance management
  
• Manage duty rosters and ensure operational coverage
  

Administration & Financial Duties:

• Assist with stock control and procurement across departments
  
• Manage petty cash and support guest invoicing procedures
  
• Ensure accurate administrative and reporting standards are maintained
  

Health, Safety & Sustainability:

• Enforce lodge health and safety procedures
  
• Assist with emergency response coordination when required
  
• Support sustainable lodge operations and waste management initiatives
  

Requirements:

• Valid South African Code B driver’s licence essential
  
• 1–2 years’ experience in a senior supervisory or management role within a luxury lodge environment
  
• Strong understanding of luxury hospitality operations
  
• Proficient in MS Office and property management systems such as Nightsbridge
  
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  
• Well-presented and highly professional at all times
  
• Ability to thrive in a remote wilderness environment
  
• Fluent in English essential
  
• Zulu speaking ability advantageous
  

This role requires a candidate who is adaptable, proactive, service-driven, and willing to be fully involved in all aspects of lodge operations.

Candidates interested in applying for this opportunity are invited to submit their CV for consideration.