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.

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.