Safari Lodge Manager – Kafunta Safaris

Job Description

Position Title: Lodge Manager

Location: Kafunta Safaris, South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
Starting Date: 1 April 2025 (or earlier by arrangement)
Contract Duration: 2 years (long-term contract)
Salary: Negotiable
Accommodation: Basic provided
Meals: Senior staff meals provided

Position Overview:

The Lodge Manager will oversee the front-of-house operations at Kafunta River Lodge & Sunset House, ensuring an exceptional guest experience, managing staff, and maintaining the lodge’s facilities. The role involves leadership, guest relations, logistical planning, budgeting, cost control, and operational efficiency. This is a hands-on management position requiring a detail-oriented individual with strong organizational skills and a commitment to providing excellent hospitality.

Key Responsibilities:

Guest Experience:

• Ensure a welcoming atmosphere and a consistently high level of service.
• Maintain excellent guest relations and create personalized experiences.
• Oversee daily operations with attention to detail to ensure a smooth running of the lodge.

Food & Beverage:

• Supervise kitchen operations to ensure efficiency and cleanliness.
• Maintain high standards of food quality and consistency.
• Update menus and train staff on new dishes and service standards.
• Ensure excellent customer service, including special requests and dietary requirements.
• Manage the seamless flow between the kitchen and restaurant operations.

Operational Management:

• Lead and oversee the front-of-house team, including Hosts, Guest Relations Manager (to be appointed), Reservations Manager, and Senior Safari Guide.
• Supervise F&B operations, including menu planning and kitchen oversight to ensure meal presentation meets standards.
• Control stock and inventory for various departments including kitchens, housekeeping, and bar.
• Conduct monthly consumption and cost reports using the Palladium system.
• Ensure compliance with hygiene, health, and safety regulations.
• Handle logistics related to guest movements, rooming, activities, and guiding.

Staff Management & Leadership:

• Manage and motivate lodge staff, providing guidance and fostering a positive work environment.
• Guide safari teams to ensure high service levels both at the lodge and on safari.
• Liaise with Bush Camp Managers to ensure smooth operations across multiple properties.

Financial Management:

• Develop and manage the lodge’s budget and financial controls.
• Monitor stock levels and manage cost controls for various departments.
• Identify areas for operational improvement and efficiency, proposing and implementing solutions.

Collaboration & Reporting:

• Work closely with the Operations Manager, Bush Camp Managers, and senior leadership to ensure consistent operations across the company.
• Prepare and submit monthly reports to the Operations Manager and Directors.
• Assist with marketing initiatives and agent familiarization trips as required.

Strategic Planning:

• Contribute to long-term planning, including identifying opportunities for growth, operational improvements, and guest experience enhancements.

Required Skills & Experience:

Customer Service:

• Professional, approachable, and friendly, with the ability to build strong relationships with guests and staff.

Management:

• Proven leadership abilities with strong organizational and team management skills.

Communication:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to manage diverse teams and interact effectively with guests and stakeholders.

Financial Acumen:

• Strong financial planning, budgeting, and cost control capabilities.

Decision Making:

• Confident and adaptable decision-maker, able to respond effectively to changing circumstances.

Computer Skills:

• Advanced computer literacy, with familiarity in operations management systems (experience with Palladium is a plus).

Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a similar role, preferably in lodge management or other hospitality leadership positions.

Qualifications:

• A diploma or degree in Hospitality, Management, or a related field.

Company Overview:

Kafunta Safaris operates three unique properties in Zambia’s renowned South Luangwa National Park, offering guests exclusive and high-quality safari experiences. The main operational base is Kafunta River Lodge (20 guests), and Sunset House (6-9 guests), located in the same area. The company also operates Three Rivers Camp (10 guests) and Island Bush Camp (10 guests) in remote parts of the park. Kafunta Safaris is committed to exceptional service, sustainability, and fostering positive relationships with guests and local communities.