Assistant Lodge Manager

Assistant Lodge Manager

Main Purpose of the Role

• Support the Lodge Manager with the daily operations of the lodge.

• Act as Lodge Manager in the absence of the Lodge Manager.

• Ensure high standards of guest service, housekeeping, maintenance, health and safety, and staff management.

• Lead and motivate lodge teams to deliver a professional 5-star guest experience.

Key Responsibilities

General Lodge Management

• Assist with the smooth running of all lodge operations.

• Take responsibility for assigned lodge departments and teams.

• Maintain lodge standards, service levels, and operational efficiency.

• Ensure guests receive a professional, warm, and memorable experience.

Front of House

• Lead, motivate, and support the Front of House team.

• Oversee reception, switchboard, curio shop, guest arrivals, and departures.

• Manage day sheets, rooming lists, and arrival reports.

• Handle banking, invoices, gratuities, and related administration.

• Conduct site inspections and lodge show-arounds.

• Monitor guest feedback and ensure concerns are resolved quickly.

Housekeeping

• Lead and supervise the Housekeeping team.

• Maintain high room and lodge cleanliness standards.

• Conduct room checks and turndown spot checks.

• Manage staff uniforms and presentation standards.

Lodge Maintenance

• Supervise the lodge maintenance team.

• Work closely with the Maintenance Manager on repairs and upkeep.

• Monitor preventative maintenance schedules.

• Assist with staff accommodation maintenance.

• Ensure lodge facilities, equipment, gardens, pools, vehicles, air conditioners, refrigeration, electricity, and firefighting equipment are maintained.

• Assist with pest control management.

Health and Safety

• Work with the Reserve Security Manager on lodge health and safety matters.

• Lead the Lodge Health and Safety Committee.

• Assist with risk assessments and corrective actions.

• Monitor firefighting equipment and fire drills.

• Maintain a safe working environment for staff and guests.

Finance and Budgeting

• Assist with monthly reports.

• Participate in the budgeting process.

• Manage assigned budget lines.

• Monitor and control expenditure.

• Attend monthly finance meetings.

Human Resources

• Assist with staff training and development.

• Manage staff performance, discipline, welfare, and morale.

• Monitor leave cycles and training files.

• Lead teams in a positive and professional manner.

Food, Beverage and Guest Experience

• Assist with food and beverage operations.

• Host guests and support guest relations.

• Assist with guest delight experiences and bush banqueting.

• Address negative guest feedback and ensure suitable solutions are implemented.

• Assist the Head Ranger or Senior Ranger team with vehicle inspections.

• Join safari activities when required to monitor and support the guest safari experience.

Requirements

• Minimum 5 years’ management experience in a 5-star boutique lodge, Big 5 reserve, or similar lodge environment.

• Hospitality management qualification.

• Strong operational and financial experience.

• High emotional intelligence and leadership ability.

• Hospitality and service training experience.

• Room division experience.

• Practical maintenance knowledge or experience.

• Valid driver’s licence and own transport.