The Assistant Lodge Manager is responsible for supporting the Lodge Manager in the daily operation and administration of the lodge and reserve environment. The role includes overseeing guest services, coordinating operational activities across departments, supervising staff, maintaining hospitality and presentation standards, and ensuring the efficient functioning of lodge operations. The Assistant Lodge Manager is also responsible for supporting compliance with health, safety, environmental, and company standards while contributing to an exceptional guest experience and overall operational effectiveness.
- Previous experience in hospitality or lodge operations management.
- Experience within a safari lodge, game reserve, or luxury hospitality environment preferred.
- Strong leadership and communication skills.
- Excellent guest relations ability.
- Computer literacy (Microsoft Office, reservation/PMS systems).
- Valid driver’s licence advantageous.
- Ability to work flexible hours, weekends, and public holidays.
- Ability to work in a remote environment.
Key Competencies:
- Professional and guest-focused.
- Strong problem-solving ability.
- Organised and detail-oriented.
- Calm under pressure.
- Team player with strong leadership potential.
- Passion for wildlife, conservation, and hospitality.
Advantageous Experience:
- Experience with PMS systems such as Semper, NightsBridge, or Opera PMS.
- Experience within luxury safari or ecotourism operations.
- First Aid qualification.
- Knowledge of South African hospitality and labour regulations.
Guest Experience & Hospitality
- Assist in managing all guest-facing lodge operations.
- Ensure exceptional guest service standards are maintained at all times.
- Welcome and host guests during check-in, meals, activities, and departures.
- Handle guest requests, complaints, and special arrangements professionally.
- Ensure guest feedback and reviews are monitored and addressed.
- Support the creation of memorable safari and lodge experiences.
Lodge Operations
- Oversee day-to-day lodge operations in the absence of the Lodge Manager.
- Ensure all departments operate efficiently and according to SOPs.
- Monitor lodge presentation, cleanliness, maintenance, and overall standards.
- Coordinate operational logistics between housekeeping, kitchen, maintenance, and guiding teams.
- Assist with stock control and inventory management.
- Ensure operational readiness for arrivals, departures, and special events.
Staff Management
- Supervise lodge staff and assist with daily task delegation.
- Support recruitment, onboarding, training, and staff development.
- Assist in managing staff rosters, attendance, and performance.
- Promote teamwork, discipline, and professional conduct.
- Ensure staff comply with company policies and procedures.
Food & Beverage Oversight
- Assist with restaurant and bar operations.
- Monitor food quality, presentation, hygiene, and guest satisfaction.
- Support stock control, ordering, and wastage management.
- Ensure service standards align with luxury hospitality expectations.
Financial & Administrative Duties
- Assist with daily cash-ups, petty cash, and reporting.
- Monitor operational costs and assist with budget control.
- Support reservations, room allocations, and occupancy management.
- Assist with procurement and supplier coordination.
- Compile operational reports and lodge statistics when required.
Maintenance & Reserve Coordination
- Report and follow up on lodge maintenance issues.
- Coordinate with reserve operations regarding guest activities and safety.
- Assist in managing vehicles, equipment, and operational assets.
- Ensure health, safety, and environmental standards are upheld.
Compliance & Health & Safety
- Ensure compliance with hospitality, labour, and health & safety regulations.
- Maintain hygiene and sanitation standards in all lodge areas.
- Support emergency procedures and incident reporting protocols.
- Ensure responsible environmental and conservation practices are followed.
