Operations Manager

The ideal candidate is a hands-on, presentable leader with senior, multi-department hospitality experience, ideally at a five-star safari lodge. You will bring energy, a sense of fun and a calm head to a busy bush operation.

Core Criteria:

• Minimum three years’ experience in a senior operational or management role in hospitality, preferably at a five-star safari lodge, overseeing multiple departments
• Proven experience in staff management and development, operational planning, budgeting and cost control
• Proven track record of delivering service excellence and developing five-star service standards
• Sound understanding of Health & Safety requirements and legislation
• Highly presentable, with strong leadership, people and communication skills
• Experience managing projects and driving operational improvements
• Ability to identify operational challenges, implement solutions and drive efficiencies
• Able to work collaboratively with senior management and departmental HODs
• Extensive computer literacy (Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint and internet); knowledge of Sage X3 and HMS Infor advantageous
• Relevant qualification in Hospitality Management advantageous
• Excellent spoken and written English
• Valid driver’s licence and own means of travel to the property
• Willing to work flexible hours and a 4 weeks on, 2 weeks off work cycle
• Realistic expectations of bush life
• Positive, accountable and solution-oriented, with cultural sensitivity and a good sense of humour

Core Responsibilities:

• Lead, guide and support all operational departments
• Uphold a consistently exceptional five-star guest experience across the entire guest journey
• Monitor guest feedback and resolve concerns together with HODs
• Identify and implement improvements to systems, processes and operational performanceMonitor departmental expenditure against budgets and targets, and identify cost-control opportunities
• Assist with the preparation and management of departmental budgets
• Manage departmental resources, equipment and assets effectively
• Ensure facilities, vehicles and equipment are maintained to the highest standard
• Take overall responsibility for Health & Safety standards and statutory compliance across the property
• Conduct Health & Safety inspections and risk assessments
• Provide leave cover for the Deputy General Manager

On Offer:

• Permanent employment
• Market-related salary, depending on qualifications and experience
• Live-in, basic furnished accommodation
• Food allowance of R2,718 per month, over and above salary
• Work cycle of 4 weeks on, 2 weeks off
• Medical aid with 50% company contribution (after a successful 3-month probation period)
• Pension fund with 50% company contribution (after a successful 3-month probation period)
• Share of guest gratuities and a 1% company revenue gratuity (from reopening in 2027)
• Twenty bed nights per year for family and friends (from reopening in 2027)
• Two free gym memberships (after a successful 3-month probation period)
• Please note: pets cannot be accommodated, and no transport services are provided

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