Assistant Lodge Manager
Luxury Lodge | Greater Kruger
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 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.
• Ensure senior 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 pest control and lodge maintenance 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
• Salary: R18,000 Negotiable Depending on Experience.
• Live-in accommodation provided.
• Opportunity to join a respected luxury lodge within the Greater Kruger region.
Suitable candidates who are passionate about luxury hospitality and guest excellence are invited to submit their CV for consideration.