Job Description

We're looking for a General Manager with character, intuition, and charisma -- someone who has already mastered the art of big-brand luxury but now longs for something warmer and more soulful. A space where hospitality is not scripted, but lived. Where attention to detail isn't about ticking boxes, but creating moments that matter. This boutique hotel and its award-winning fine dining restaurant in Cape Town offer just that: a place where you can lead a high-performing team, shape an unforgettable guest experience, and be part of a community that values heart as much as head.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic & Operational Leadership

• Develop and execute annual business plans for both the hotel and restaurant, ensuring alignment with the broader vision and goals.
• Align operational objectives with brand positioning, guest experience targets, and financial performance.
• Lead cross-functional coordination between hotel and restaurant operations.
• Maintain and promote the brand's reputation through site inspections, media hosting, and market engagement.
• Act as the key liaison between the support office and on-site operations, ensuring alignment of strategies and seamless communication.

Guest Experience, Innovation & Brand Standards

• Oversee the full guest journey from pre-arrival to post-departure, ensuring exceptional service across all touchpoints.
• Monitor feedback channels and personally manage key complaints, using insights for continuous improvement.
• Maintain brand-consistent design, ambiance, and experiential elements.
• Benchmark offerings against industry trends and competitors to ensure innovation and relevance.
• Take an active role in guest hosting to cultivate relationships and deliver highly personalized experiences.

Financial Management & Procurement

• Develop, manage, and report on budgets and forecasts at property level.
• Drive profitability by managing costs and overseeing the full P&L of both operations.
• Support procurement initiatives to secure favorable supplier agreements.
• Approve purchasing and capital expenditure in accordance with company policy.

Team Leadership, Succession & Culture

• Lead the recruitment, onboarding, and performance management of key team members across both hotel and restaurant.
• Conduct monthly departmental meetings and one-on-ones with direct reports.
• Foster a culture of excellence, innovation, and accountability.
• Implement structured performance systems including KPIs, reviews, and succession planning.
• Provide operational support during critical vacancies to ensure business continuity.
• Drive staff development and identify talent for future leadership roles.
• Oversee cross-property training initiatives and external training coordination.

Sales, Marketing & Revenue Generation

• Partner with central sales and marketing teams to boost direct bookings and restaurant footfall.
• Support event sales, brand activations, and guest engagement strategies.
• Monitor and adjust pricing, packages, and promotions to maintain market competitiveness.
• Manage site inspections to ensure they reflect brand standards and professionalism.

Compliance, Community & Standards

• Ensure strict compliance with all labour, health and safety, and food safety legislation.
• Oversee cleanliness, maintenance, and hygiene across the entire property.
• Implement and audit SOPs and quality control systems across departments.
• Lead sustainability and risk management practices, including measures for local challenges like water shortages and load shedding.

Neighbourhood Engagement

• Cultivate partnerships that position the hotel and restaurant positively within the community.
• Represent the property in local forums, initiatives, and stakeholder groups.
• Build relationships with nearby businesses to enhance the broader area brand and guest offering.
• Champion initiatives that improve the appearance and environment of the surrounding district.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Diploma or Degree in Hospitality Management or Business Administration
• 10-15 years' experience in hospitality, with a minimum of 5 years in senior leadership roles
• Proven success in luxury boutique hotel and/or fine dining environments
• In-depth knowledge of Cape Town's tourism and culinary landscape
• Proficiency with PMS, POS, and revenue management systems
• Valid driver's license and flexibility to work weekends and non-standard hours
• Strategic thinker with strong operational capabilities
• Strong financial and commercial acumen
• Exceptional guest service mindset, particularly in luxury settings
• Strong leadership, motivation, and team development abilities
• Calm, solutions-oriented approach under pressure
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written)
• High emotional intelligence and stakeholder engagement skills

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