General Manager

Description:

Position OverviewThe General Manager is responsible for the full operational, financial, and strategic leadership of a game lodge or safari lodge. This role oversees all eco-tourism and/or hunting-related activities, hospitality operations, staff management, guest experience, marketing, conservation alignment, and business development.The ideal candidate is an experienced hospitality professional with a strong background in lodge management, luxury guest services, wildlife operations, and developing profitable, sustainable tourism offerings. The General Manager ensures world-class service delivery while driving growth and maintaining strong conservation and community relationships. Key Responsibilities Strategic Development & OperationsDevelop and implement long-term business strategies for eco-tourism, hospitality, and, where applicable, hunting operations.Oversee daily lodge operations, including accommodation, guest services, housekeeping, maintenance, food & beverage, and activities.Establish operational systems, SOPs, budgets, policies, and performance standards.Ensure all activities align with conservation, sustainability, and ethical tourism practices.Drive continuous improvement across all operational areas. Marketing & Business DevelopmentCreate and execute marketing strategies to position the lodge as a premier tourism destination.Build and maintain relationships with tour operators, travel agents, travel platforms, and industry partners.Oversee digital marketing, social media, and online presence to increase visibility and bookings.Represent the lodge at tourism fairs, trade shows, and networking events when required. Guest Experience & Service ExcellenceEnsure a 5-star guest experience from arrival to departure.Personalise experiences for various guest profiles, including eco-tourism, photographic safaris, and hunting guests (where applicable).Monitor guest feedback, implement service improvements, and maintain high satisfaction ratings.Uphold service... Qualifications & Experience

• Degree or diploma in Hospitality Management, Eco-Tourism, Wildlife Management, or a related field.
• Minimum 8–10 years lodge or game reserve management experience, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven ability to establish, grow, or transform lodge operations.
• In-depth understanding of eco-tourism, wildlife conservation, and guest experience dynamics.
• Experience in managing high-end or luxury safari lodges is highly advantageous.
• Strong financial and business management skills.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal abilities.
• Valid driver’s licence; firearm competency advantageous depending on lodge operations.

Personal Attributes

• Visionary, strategic thinker with entrepreneurial drive.
• Passion for conservation, hospitality, and wildlife.
• Hands-on, practical problem-solver with strong operational insight.
• Exceptional interpersonal and cross-cultural communication abilities.
• Highly organised, adaptable, and results-driven.
• Able to thrive in a remote, fast-paced lodge environment.

Requirements:

• Degree or diploma in Hospitality Management, Eco-Tourism, Wildlife Management, or a related field.
• Minimum 8–10 years lodge or game reserve management experience, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven ability to establish, grow, or transform lodge operations.
• In-depth understanding of eco-tourism, wildlife conservation, and guest experience dynamics.
• Experience in managing high-end or luxury safari lodges is highly advantageous.
• Strong financial and business management skills.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal abilities.
• Valid driver’s licence; firearm competency advantageous depending on lodge operations.

• Visionary, strategic thinker with entrepreneurial drive.
• Passion for conservation, hospitality, and wildlife.
• Hands-on, practical problem-solver with strong operational insight.
• Exceptional interpersonal and cross-cultural communication abilities.
• Highly organised, adaptable, and results-driven.
• Able to thrive in a remote, fast-paced lodge environment.