Description:
The Strategic Business Partner for Royal Malewane Lodges serves as a key financial and strategic advisor, working in close partnership with the leadership teams of both the lodges and our Cape Town-based Head Office.
With a strong emphasis on financial analysis, the role provides deep strategic insight, robust commercial acumen, and practical support to align functional capabilities with business priorities. The Strategic Business Partner bridges leadership intent with operational and financial reality by delivering tailored, data-driven, insight-led solutions that drive enhanced performance, profitability, cost efficiency, and consistent financial outcomes across Royal Malewane Lodges.
Through financial modelling, performance analysis, budgeting, forecasting, and commercial decision support, this position empowers management teams to optimize resource allocation, maximize revenue opportunities and safeguard sustainable growth, ultimately enabling them to deliver on The Royal Portfolio's purpose, which is "to give our guests a complete experience and a perfect stay".
Duties & Responsibilities:
1: Business Partnering & Strategic Involvement
Act as a trusted financial and commercial partner to MD, Group FD, RML Executive GM and GMs Develop a deep understanding of lodge operations, strategy, and performance drivers Translate group strategy into practical, lodge-level financial insights and actions Present financials in monthly and quarterly reviews Maintain a visible on-property presence across all Royal Malewane lodges2: Operational Decision Support
Provide timely, insightful financial analysis to support operational and strategic decisions Partner with operational teams on initiatives impacting revenue, cost, efficiency, or guest experience Challenge assumptions and proposals constructively, using data and commercial logic3: Compliance & Risk Management
Ensure adherence to group financial policies, internal controls, and audit requirements Support lodges in meeting deadlines for AP, AR, payroll, approvals, and reporting Act as a first line of defense for financial risk at lodge level4: Financial Management & Reporting
Ensure accurate, timely monthly management accounts and lodge P&Ls Support lodge leadership in understanding financial performance and variances Assist with interpretation of results, trends, and forward-looking indicators5: Cost Control and Efficiency
Monitor key cost drivers and identify opportunities for efficiency and savings Support procurement, supply chain, and operational teams with cost analysis and insights Drive financially sound decision-making without compromising guest experience6: Budgeting & Forecasting Accuracy
Lead and support annual budgeting