Assistant Lodge Manager

SUMMARY:
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced, dedicated and service-driven Assistant Lodge Manager to join a prestigious luxury lodge in Grahamstown, Eastern Cape.
The successful candidate will assist the Lodge Manager with the overall day-to-day operations of the lodge, ensuring exceptional guest experiences and maintaining the highest standards of service, hospitality and operational excellence.
This is a hands-on management position requiring strong leadership abilities, excellent communication skills and a passion for luxury hospitality. The ideal candidate must be able to lead and motivate a team, oversee multiple departments and ensure the smooth running of all lodge operations.
Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Lodge Manager with the overall management and daily operations of the lodge.
• Ensure exceptional guest experiences through personalised service and attention to detail.
• Oversee and coordinate the Front of House, Housekeeping, Food and Beverage and other operational departments.
• Maintain the highest standards of luxury service, presentation, cleanliness and hospitality.
• Supervise, train, mentor and motivate staff to achieve operational excellence.
• Assist with staff scheduling, leave planning, performance management and disciplinary procedures.
• Handle guest enquiries, requests, complaints and special arrangements professionally.
• Conduct regular operational inspections to ensure quality and consistency.
• Monitor stock control, ordering, inventory and departmental budgets.
• Assist with financial administration, cost control and achieving operational targets.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations and company policies.
• Maintain effective communication between departments and management.
• Assist with recruitment, onboarding and ongoing staff development.
• Step in as Acting Lodge Manager when required.

POSITION INFO:
Qualifications Relevant hospitality management qualification or equivalent experience preferred. Minimum 3-5 years' experience in a management or supervisory position within a luxury lodge, hotel or boutique hospitality establishment. Previous experience in a luxury safari lodge environment will be advantageous. Strong knowledge of Front of House, Food and Beverage and Housekeeping operations. Excellent understanding of guest relations and luxury service standards. Financial administration, budgeting and stock control experience. Computer literacy and experience with hospitality management systems. Skills and Competencies Excellent leadership and team management abilities. Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills. Strong organisational and administrative skills. Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities. Ability to multitask and work under pressure. High attention to detail and strong quality-control standards. Professional presentation and a positive attitude. Strong guest-relations and conflict-resolution skills. Ability to work independently and take initiative. Passion for hospitality and delivering exceptional guest experiences. Personal Attributes Mature, responsible and professional. Hands-on approach to management. Friendly, approachable and guest-focused. Energetic, proactive and solutions-driven. Flexible and adaptable to operational requirements. Strong work ethic and willingness to lead by example. Additional Requirements Valid driver's licence preferred. Own reliable transport advantageous. Contactable references. Clear criminal record. Benefits Opportunity to work within a prestigious luxury lodge. Accommodation arrangements to be discussed. Meals while on duty. Opportunity for professional growth and development. Competitive remuneration, depending on experience.