Senior Duty Manager

SUMMARY:
Exclusive 5* Safari Lodge in Welgevonden Game Reserve is looking for an experienced Senior Duty Manager to join their team.

Offering private suites overlooking a river valley, the lodge delivers an intimate safari experience centred on discreet, personalised service. This hands-on role will lead daily operations while on duty and take operational responsibility in the Resident Manager’s absence.

POSITION INFO:
Duties: Guest Experience: Oversee the guest experience from arrival to departure, ensuring attentive and personalised service. Coordinate special occasions, private dining and guest requests while protecting guest privacy. Resolve sensitive complaints within delegated authority and follow through on agreed actions. Team Leadership & Lodge Standards: Set operational priorities, conduct duty briefings and maintain clear departmental handovers. Coach employees, reinforce service standards and address performance or conduct concerns professionally. Inspect suites, private decks, plunge pools, outdoor relaxation areas and bathrooms for service readiness. Maintain consistently high presentation standards throughout public areas. Prioritise maintenance concerns according to safety and guest impact, verifying that corrective work is completed. Food & Beverage: Lead restaurant and private dining service, coordinating meal timings around game drives. Confirm dietary requirements with the kitchen and monitor service quality. Oversee food and beverage stock usage and minimise wastage. Administration & Operational Management: Oversee stock ordering and stocktakes, investigate variances and enforce purchasing controls. Monitor departmental expenditure against budgets and support payroll administration. Submit weekly reports highlighting operational risks and matters requiring management attention. Act as the senior operational contact in the Resident Manager's absence. Coordinate guest movements and game-drive departures with the guiding team. Maintain safety and emergency procedures appropriate to a cliffside lodge within a wildlife reserve. Requirements: Grade 12 A formal hospitality qualification At least 3+ years proven leadership experience in senior duty management, assistant lodge management or a comparable luxury hospitality role. Experience within a luxury safari lodge or tented camp environment is essential. Demonstrated ability to deliver personalised service and resolve sensitive guest complaints discreetly. Experience coordinating Housekeeping, Maintenance and Food & Beverage operations. Strong administrative and reporting skills, including proficiency in Opera. Practical experience monitoring budgets, controlling costs and managing purchasing, stocktakes and variances. A valid driver's licence. Ability to perform the physical duties of the role and work safely around wildlife. Sound judgement and confidence making independent decisions within delegated authority. Strong attention to detail and the ability to prioritise under pressure. A visible, hands-on leadership style that promotes accountability. Willingness to work extended and flexible hours. Immediate availability would be advantageous.