Job Summary
? LODGE MANAGEMENT VACANCY ? ? Assistant Lodge Manager – Luxury Safari Lodge ? Outside Hoedspruit (near Kruger National Park) ? Salary: R18,000 Negotiable DOE | Live-in Role Kendrick Recruitment is seeking an experienced Assistant Lodge Manager to support operations at a luxury safari lodge near the Kruger National Park. This hands-on role requires strong leadership, operational expertise, and the ability to deliver exceptional guest experiences in a remote lodge environment. ? Minimum Requirements: • Diploma or degree in Hospitality Management or related field • Minimum 5 years’ experience in a senior management role within a lodge or luxury hospitality setting • Strong knowledge of lodge departments (F&B, Housekeeping, Front Office, Maintenance) • Financial literacy, budgeting, and cost control experience • Strong leadership, team management, and problem-solving skills • Excellent guest service and communication abilities • Computer literate (MS Office, PMS & POS systems) • Familiarity with lodge management systems (ResRequest, Semper, PANstrat) • Fluent in English; other local languages advantageous • Valid driver’s licence and ability to work flexible shifts • Live-in accommodation required ? Key Responsibilities: Guest Experience & Service Standards • Manage the guest journey from arrival to departure • Maintain and enforce policies, processes, and service standards • Ensure immediate response to guest service requests • Oversee 5-star service standards across all departments • Handle VIP guests and complaints when on duty • Coordinate external guest activities (hot air balloon, helicopter rides) Lodge Operations Management • Support the General Manager in implementing operational plans • Oversee daily operations across departments • Lead daily management meetings and handovers • Ensure SOPs are followed and recommend improvements • Coordinate with Reservations for guest arrivals, departures, and special requirements Financial Management • Assist in preparing annual budgets and monitor departmental spending • Manage petty cash and financial reconciliations • Monitor stock usage, par levels, and equipment consumption • Support revenue optimisation through upselling and cross-selling opportunities People Leadership & HR Oversight • Manage staff schedules and ensure adequate staffing • Provide on-the-job training and support • Assist with recruitment, onboarding, and staff development • Conduct minor disciplinary processes in the GM’s absence • Ensure professional presentation and adherence to uniform standards Health; Safety & Compliance • Ensure compliance with health, safety, labour, and environmental regulations • Maintain emergency response readiness • Enforce safety and security measures Maintenance & Infrastructure • Collaborate with the Maintenance Manager to maintain lodge infrastructure • Address urgent equipment or infrastructure failures • Support upkeep of lodge areas including gardens and pools Systems; Technology & Reporting • Implement and maintain lodge management and reporting systems • Utilise operational software for bookings and guest stays • Submit operational and financial reports to the General Operations Manager • Report guest complaints, risks, or incidents according to SOPs • Maintain effective communication across all departments ? Personal Attributes: • Strategic thinker with operational focus • Calm under pressure and solution-oriented • Passion for hospitality, people, and the natural environment • Strong interpersonal and leadership presence • Cultural sensitivity and inclusiveness • Exceptional attention to detail and organisational discipline Live-in accommodation provided. Only candidates meeting the listed requirements will be contacted within 7 working days.