Facilities Manager
Location: Western Cape
Salary: Market related
Accommodation: Provided (optional)
Start Date: ASAP
Position Overview:
A premier game reserve in the Western Cape is seeking an experienced and proactive Facilities Manager to oversee all infrastructure development, maintenance operations, and facility management. This role involves leading both long-term capital projects and daily operational maintenance, with a strong focus on sustainability, efficiency, and compliance. The ideal candidate will have solid experience in construction, infrastructure planning, team leadership, and project management—ideally within a hospitality or game reserve environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Infrastructure & Project Management
- Lead the planning and execution of infrastructure projects from concept to completion (lodges, staff housing, roads, water and waste systems, energy solutions).
- Develop project scopes, manage timelines, budgets, and ensure high-quality delivery.
- Source, negotiate, and manage external contractors and service providers.
- Ensure all construction and development projects meet legal, environmental, and safety standards.
- Maintenance Operations
- Oversee the maintenance and upkeep of all facilities, including lodges, staff accommodations, operational buildings, and public areas.
- Lead and manage the internal maintenance team to ensure all repair and upkeep tasks are carried out efficiently and effectively.
- Develop and implement preventative maintenance schedules to reduce downtime and prolong the life of infrastructure and equipment.
- Monitor and manage all building systems including plumbing, electrical, structural, and mechanical components.
- Team & Budget Management
- Recruit, train, supervise, and support maintenance staff to perform at high standards.
- Foster a hands-on, accountable team culture that prioritizes efficiency and attention to detail.
- Manage departmental budgets, procurement, and supplier relationships to ensure cost-effective operations.
- Track and control expenses, forecasting future infrastructure and maintenance needs.
- Compliance & Safety
- Ensure all work practices adhere to health and safety regulations and environmental sustainability policies.
- Regularly assess and improve systems to ensure legal and operational compliance.
- Implement emergency maintenance protocols and risk mitigation strategies.
- Cross-Department Collaboration
- Work closely with hospitality and operational departments to assess infrastructure needs and plan accordingly.
- Support the preparation and readiness of facilities for guest stays, events, seasonal shifts, and VIP visits.
- Communicate project timelines, maintenance schedules, and facility updates with relevant stakeholders.
- Reporting & Forecasting
- Provide high-level operational reports and project updates to the General Manager and executive team.
- Assist with long-term planning and strategic infrastructure development aligned with growth and conservation goals.
Qualifications & Experience:
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in facility or infrastructure management, ideally in a game reserve, hospitality, or tourism environment.
- Proven experience managing large-scale building projects and diverse maintenance teams.
- Strong technical knowledge of construction, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems.
- Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
- Hands-on approach to problem-solving and team leadership.
- Experience managing budgets and procurement processes.
- Knowledge of legal, safety, and environmental standards.
- Passion for sustainable practices and conservation-driven operations.
Key Competencies:
- Strong project and time management skills.
- Practical problem-solving abilities.
- Ability to lead under pressure in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
- Attention to detail and a results-oriented mindset.
- Collaborative and adaptable approach with a high level of initiative.
Please forward applications to cam@cedar-wood.co.za
0741028398