Head Field Guide & Training Manager (Group Role) – Uganda

Location: Uganda (Multi-Property Safari Portfolio)
Package: Highly competitive NET salary (USD) + Accommodation + Full Expat Benefits

The Opportunity

An exceptional opportunity exists for a seasoned Field Guide Trainer and Conservation Professional to take on a Group Head Guide & Training leadership role across a portfolio of high-end safari lodges in Uganda.

This is a strategic and operational leadership position, responsible for elevating guiding standards, driving training excellence, and ensuring world-class guest experiences across multiple remote wilderness properties.

Ideal Candidate Profile

This role is suited to a highly experienced, career field guide and trainer who is ready to step into a group-level leadership role, shaping the next generation of guides while maintaining exceptional standards across a premium safari operation.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Oversight

• Provide group-level leadership to all Field Guides across multiple lodges
• Set, implement, and continuously refine guiding standards and SOPs
• Conduct regular on-site evaluations and performance audits
• Mentor senior guides and develop succession pipelines

Training & Development

• Design and implement a structured FGASA-aligned training programme
• Train and upskill both new entrant guides and experienced guides
• Oversee logbooks, assessments, and progression pathways
• Conduct practical and theoretical training sessions (ecology, tracking, safety, guest experience)

Assessment & Compliance

• Act as lead Assessor / Moderator for guiding standards
• Ensure alignment with FGASA standards and NQF equivalency frameworks
• Maintain training records, assessment documentation, and compliance protocols

Guest Experience & Interpretation

• Ensure guiding teams consistently deliver exceptional interpretive experiences
• Drive storytelling, ecological knowledge, and guest engagement standards
• Step in operationally where required as a lead guide

Operational Integration

• Work closely with Lodge Management to align guiding with overall guest experience strategy
• Support conservation, research, and community engagement initiatives

Minimum Requirements ( based on FGASA or similar qualifications)

• FGASA Field Guide (NQF4 or higher)
• FGASA Trails Guide (Full Qualification)
• FGASA Registered Assessor and/or Mentor (Essential)
• Minimum 5–10 years high-end safari guiding experience
• Proven experience in training and developing field guides
• Strong track record in multi-property or senior guiding roles

Preferred Expertise

• Advanced FGASA or specialist qualifications (e.g., tracking, birding, ecology)
• Experience working in remote wilderness or East African environments
• Strong understanding of dangerous game protocols and walking safaris
• Previous involvement in guide training schools or academies

Key Competencies

• Exceptional leadership and mentoring capability
• High-level communication and instructional skills
• Strong attention to detail and assessment discipline
• Ability to operate effectively in remote, logistically complex environments
• Passion for conservation, wilderness, and skills transfer

Remuneration Package & Benefits

• NET salary (USD) 3000.00 – 3500.00 / ZAR 50 000.00 – 55 000.00 (negotiable )
  • The company shall pay and be responsible for PAYE
  • The company shall pay the applicable Local Service Tax
• Accommodation and full board
  • Fully furnished and serviced accommodation inclusive of utilities will be provided
  • Meals and beverages will be provided
• Comprehensive expatriate benefits package include: Paid / covered by the Company
  • Uniforms / Laundry
  • Local in-country Medical Cover
  • Cost of all work permits / Visa’s
  • Annual return Air Tickets to point of origin congruent with leave cycle . Should leave be split then additional air tickets will need to be covered by the employee.
  • The company shall provide for business use only :
  • A company issued phone inclusive of business airtime and data
  • A company issued Laptop for operational and administrative use
  • Company vehicle / transport strictly for operational requirements
• Work within some of Africa’s most unique and biodiverse wilderness areas

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit:

• Detailed CV (including FGASA qualifications and logbook hours)
• Copies of relevant certifications
• References

For Attention : Butch Mollett : Email – gordon@zjr.co.za Mobile / WhatsApp - +27 83 689 4769

Important : Only candidates meeting the above criteria will be considered.