Job Summary
Assistant Lodge Manager Luxury Lodge | Greater Kruger 2-Month Contract | Salary: R18,000 Negotiable DOE | Live-In Position Kendrick Recruitment is currently seeking an experienced and service-driven Assistant Lodge Manager for a luxury lodge situated in the Greater Kruger region. This is an exciting 2-month contract opportunity for a hospitality professional with strong operational expertise, exceptional leadership skills, and a passion for delivering outstanding guest experiences. Working closely with the General Manager, the successful candidate will play a key role in overseeing the day-to-day operations of the lodge, ensuring exceptional service standards, operational efficiency, team development, and guest satisfaction. Key Responsibilities Guest Experience & Service Standards • Oversee the complete guest journey from arrival to departure. • Ensure all departments consistently deliver exceptional service standards. • Handle guest concerns and complaints professionally and efficiently. • Manage VIP guest experiences and special requests. • Coordinate and communicate all external guest activities and excursions. • Ensure guest confidentiality and data security standards are maintained. • Monitor service delivery and implement improvements where required. • Maintain a visible management presence during meal service periods. Lodge Operations Management • Support the General Manager with the implementation of operational plans and objectives. • Oversee the daily operations of all lodge departments, including Housekeeping, Food & Beverage, Front Office, Maintenance and Laundry. • Lead daily operational meetings and departmental handovers. • Ensure all Standard Operating Procedures are followed consistently. • Monitor lodge standards and identify opportunities for operational improvements. • Maintain close communication with the Reservations team regarding arrivals, departures and special guest requirements. • Assist with the implementation and monitoring of maintenance and preventative upkeep programmes. Financial Management • Support budget management and cost control initiatives. • Ensure operational expenses remain within approved budgets. • Assist with inventory control and stock management. • Manage petty cash accurately and ensure reconciliations are completed. • Monitor staffing levels and scheduling to maximise operational efficiency. • Work closely with Finance and Procurement teams to maintain inventory and par stock levels. • Support revenue optimisation through upselling and cross-selling opportunities. People Leadership & Team Development • Supervise and support lodge staff during shifts. • Assist with staff recruitment, onboarding and induction processes. • Provide ongoing coaching and on-the-job training. • Support performance management and employee development initiatives. • Conduct counselling sessions and manage minor disciplinary matters when required. • Ensure all staff maintain professional presentation and grooming standards. • Promote a positive team culture and strong employee engagement. Health; Safety & Compliance • Ensure compliance with health, safety, labour and environmental legislation. • Maintain emergency preparedness and response procedures. • Uphold all lodge safety and security standards for guests and staff. • Ensure confidential information is handled appropriately and securely. • Assist with incident reporting and injury-on-duty documentation where required. Maintenance Oversight • Work closely with the Maintenance team to ensure all facilities are maintained to the highest standard. • Address urgent maintenance issues and equipment failures promptly. • Support the upkeep of lodge infrastructure, guest areas, gardens and swimming pools. • Monitor maintenance projects and preventative maintenance schedules. Systems & Technology • Ensure effective utilisation of lodge management and reporting systems. • Support the implementation of operational technologies and system improvements. • Utilise reporting and communication tools to enhance operational efficiency. • Identify opportunities for innovation and service enhancement. • Ensure guest accommodation systems and operational processes function effectively. Reporting & Communication • Compile and submit operational reports as required. • Report guest complaints, incidents and operational risks in accordance with company procedures. • Represent the lodge in management meetings and forums. • Maintain effective communication across all departments to ensure seamless operations. • Ensure maintenance issues, equipment failures and operational concerns are reported and addressed promptly. Requirements • Diploma or Degree in Hospitality Management or a related field. • Minimum of 5 years' experience in a senior management role within a luxury lodge or hospitality environment. • Comprehensive knowledge of all lodge departments, including Food & Beverage, Housekeeping, Front Office and Maintenance. • Strong financial management, budgeting and cost control skills. • Excellent leadership, people management and problem-solving abilities. • Outstanding guest relations and communication skills. • Proficient in Microsoft Office, PMS and POS systems. • Experience working with lodge management systems such as ResRequest, Semper or PANstrat. • Fluent in English; additional languages would be advantageous. • Valid driver's licence. • Willingness to work shifts, weekends and public holidays. • Comfortable living and working in a remote lodge environment. Core Competencies • Strong operational and strategic thinking abilities. • Excellent interpersonal and leadership skills. • Financial literacy and sound decision-making capabilities. • Calm, professional and solution-oriented approach under pressure. • Passion for hospitality, guest service and conservation. • Strong organisational skills and attention to detail. • High levels of integrity, professionalism and accountability. • Cultural awareness and inclusiveness. Package • 2-month contract position. • Salary: R18,000 Negotiable Depending on Experience. • Live-in accommodation provided. • Opportunity to join a respected luxury lodge within the Greater Kruger region.