Job Description

Closing Date: 2026-01-04
Job Type: Permanent
Job Level: Management
Experience: Between 3 - 5 Years
EE/AA: No
Summary
Lodge Manager - Luxury Boutique Safari Lodge - Mjejane Game Reserve, Mpumalanga
Our client, an exclusive luxury boutique safari lodge located in the breathtaking Mjejane Game Reserve in Mpumalanga, on the edge of the Kruger National Park, is seeking an experienced Lodge Manager to oversee daily operations, elevate guest experiences, and lead a passionate hospitality team. This is an exceptional opportunity for a hands-on, service-driven professional who thrives in a remote Big 5 environment and is committed to delivering world-class safari hospitality.
The role offers a competitive salary of R25 000 per month + live-in accommodation.
Description
The Lodge Manager will be responsible for the seamless operation of the lodge, ensuring excellence across guest service, staff leadership, financial management, maintenance, conservation compliance, and administrative reporting. The successful candidate will be operationally strong, guest-centric, and capable of leading a multidisciplinary team in a remote setting.
Key Responsibilities
Guest Experience & Service

• Deliver exceptional guest interactions and personalised service
• Oversee check-ins, check-outs, hosting, and daily guest touchpoints
• Maintain luxury standards across dining, activities, and lodge facilities
• Manage guest feedback and resolve service concerns quickly and professionally

Staff Leadership & HR

• Recruit, train, manage, and motivate service, housekeeping, guiding, and hospitality teams
• Create staff rosters, manage leave cycles, and ensure adequate coverage
• Uphold a culture of excellence, professionalism, and conservation awareness

Operations & Maintenance

• Oversee upkeep of guest suites, public areas, lodge infrastructure, and vehicles
• Ensure functionality of essential systems: water, power, generators, laundry, etc.
• Maintain strict health, safety, and hygiene standards

Wildlife & Conservation Coordination

• Work closely with rangers and field teams to coordinate game drives and guest activities
• Ensure adherence to conservation rules and reserve regulations
• Liaise with wildlife authorities and uphold eco-tourism best practices

Financial Management

• Assist with budgeting, forecasting, procurement, and cost control
• Manage suppliers and stock levels across all operational departments

Marketing & Reservations

• Support online presence, guest communication, and booking systems
• Encourage positive guest reviews and maintain high digital reputation

Administration & Reporting

• Ensure accurate record-keeping across HR, guest data, finances, and compliance
• Report regularly to lodge owners or executives

Salary & Benefits

• R25 000 per month
• Live-in accommodation provided
• Meals and utilities may be discussed depending on lodge policy
• Opportunity for long-term growth within a luxury safari environment

Minimum Requirements

• Diploma/degree in Hospitality, Tourism, or related field
• 3-5+ years lodge or luxury hospitality management experience (Big 5 reserve preferred)
• Strong leadership, communication, and people-management abilities
• Solid financial acumen and operational discipline
• Ability to thrive in a remote environment and handle on-the-ground challenges
• Valid driver's licence (4x4 experience beneficial)
• First Aid advantageous
• FGASA or ranger background is a plus
• Tech-savvy with competence in reservations and online platforms

Benefits
Live-in Accommodation

Skills Required