Job Summary
About us We have a 12-room boutique hotel in the heart of Plettenberg Bay, with its own coffee shop serving guests and locals alike. We are known for personal, warm hospitality and attention to detail — the kind of place guests return to year after year. We are looking for an experienced, hands-on General Manager to lead our team and help us grow. The role Reporting directly to the owner(s), you will take full responsibility for the day-to-day running of the hotel and coffee shop. This is a hands-on position in a small property: you will be as comfortable welcoming guests at reception or helping behind the coffee counter in a busy season as you are working through budgets and staff schedules. Key responsibilities Operations and guest experience Oversee all daily operations across front office, housekeeping, maintenance, breakfast service and the coffee shop Deliver an exceptional, personalised guest experience from booking through check-out Handle guest feedback and complaints promptly and professionally, and manage online reviews (TripAdvisor, Google, Apply Below) Maintain high standards of cleanliness, presentation and maintenance throughout the property Coffee shop Manage the coffee shop as a profitable, stand-alone business unit Oversee menu, stock ordering, supplier relationships and food cost control Ensure food safety, hygiene and health-and-safety compliance Build a loyal local customer base alongside hotel guests People leadership Recruit; train, schedule and motivate a small team Lead by example and build a positive, guest-focused culture Manage performance, rosters, leave and basic HR administration in line with South African labour law Financial and commercial Prepare and manage budgets, and control costs across the hotel and coffee shop Drive occupancy and revenue through rate management, OTA channels and direct bookings Support marketing, social media and local partnerships Report regularly to the owner(s) on performance, finances and opportunities Administration and compliance Manage the property management system (PMS) and point-of-sale (POS) systems Ensure licences, grading, insurance and statutory requirements are kept up to date Oversee maintenance schedules and service providers Requirements Minimum [5] years' experience in hotel or guesthouse management ; ideally in a boutique, luxury or owner-run property Proven food and beverage experience (a café, coffee shop or restaurant background is a strong advantage) A relevant hospitality management qualification is preferred Strong financial skills: budgeting, cost control and reporting Experience with a PMS, POS systems and online booking channels Excellent communication skills in English; Afrikaans or Xhosa is an advantage Valid driver's licence and own reliable transport Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends, public holidays and peak season Clear criminal record and contactable references The person we're looking for A natural host who genuinely enjoys people Hands-on; practical and not afraid to roll up their sleeves Calm and organised under pressure, especially in peak season A strong leader who can coach and grow a small team Commercially minded, with an eye for detail and a passion for quality Someone who would love to live and work in Plettenberg Bay What we offer A competitive, market-related salary The chance to put your stamp on a special property A beautiful place to live and work on the Garden Route How to apply Please email your CV, a short cover letter explaining why you're the right person for this role, and the details of three contactable references. ? Please Note: If you do not receive feedback within 7 working days, kindly consider your application unsuccessful.