Lodge Management Couple

Job Description

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced, dynamic management couple to oversee the daily operations of a luxury safari lodge. This position requires complementary skills to ensure the smooth running of both guest-facing and operational aspects of the lodge. The ideal couple will bring strong leadership, exceptional hospitality expertise, and a shared commitment to delivering a world-class guest experience.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Management

Jointly lead and inspire the lodge team in line with company values and service standards.

Provide mentorship and training to staff, ensuring continuous development and high morale.

Guest Experience

Ensure every guest receives personalised, memorable service that reflects 5-star hospitality standards.

Engage with guests directly, handling feedback and resolving issues with professionalism.

Operational Oversight

Oversee daily lodge functions including guest services, housekeeping, food & beverage, and back-of-house operations.

Ensure smooth coordination between departments and effective communication with head office.

Health, Safety & Compliance

Monitor security, health, and safety standards, ensuring adherence to company SOPs.

Financial & Administrative Management

Implement and manage budgets in collaboration with head office.

Maintain cost control measures while ensuring the highest quality standards are met.

Maintenance & Facilities Management

Oversee lodge facilities and infrastructure to ensure proper upkeep.

Manage contractors and maintenance staff where required.

Strategic & Problem-Solving

Anticipate operational needs and proactively plan for peak seasons.

Address challenges effectively in a remote and dynamic environment.

Requirements

Qualifications & Experience

Minimum 5 years’ management experience in a high-end safari lodge or luxury hospitality environment.

Professional, mature, and well-presented couple with excellent interpersonal skills.

Strong written and verbal communication abilities.

Demonstrated experience in :

Guest relations and high-level service delivery.

Staff management, labour relations, and working with unions (advantageous).

Overseeing and coordinating lodge maintenance.

Knowledge of food, wine, and fine dining service.

Strong organisational, multitasking, and time management skills.

South African citizenship or valid work permit.

Valid driver’s licence and own transport.

Personal Attributes

A hands-on, guest-centric couple with a genuine passion for hospitality, nature, and conservation.

Highly adaptable, proactive, and resilient under pressure.

Complementary skills (e.g., one partner strong in guest relations, hosting, and F&B; the other in operations, maintenance, and administration).

Natural leaders with the ability to build and maintain a motivated, high-performing team.

High attention to detail and a commitment to excellence.

Requirements

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Must be able to speak English and Afrikaans.
• Professional, well-presented, and guest-focused.