Cluster Director of Food & Beverage 📍 Cape Town, South Africa

We are looking for a strategic and experienced Cluster Director of Food & Beverage to oversee multiple hotel and restaurant operations within Cape Town This role requires a strong commercial mindset, luxury hospitality experience, and the ability to drive both guest satisfaction and financial performance across large-scale operations. Applicants must already hold South African work rights or valid permits. Luxury hospitality experience and exposure to high-volume operations are essential across all roles.  

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Operational Management

• Oversee all food and beverage operations across multiple properties
• Ensure consistency in service standards, food quality, and guest experience
• Develop and implement operational procedures and service standards
• Monitor daily operations of restaurants, bars, banqueting, room service, and catering departments
• Conduct regular property visits and operational audits
• Ensure compliance with company policies and hospitality standards

Financial Management

• Manage departmental budgets and financial performance across all properties
• Monitor food and beverage cost percentages and profitability
• Analyze financial reports, forecasts, and revenue performance
• Develop strategies to increase revenue and reduce operational costs
• Control stock, wastage, labour costs, and supplier expenses
• Approve purchasing and procurement processes

Leadership and Staff Management

• Lead, mentor, and support Food & Beverage Managers and department heads
• Recruit, train, and develop management and operational teams
• Conduct performance evaluations and succession planning
• Drive staff motivation, productivity, and service excellence
• Ensure effective communication between departments and properties

Guest Experience and Service Standards

• Maintain exceptional guest satisfaction levels
• Handle VIP guests, complaints, and service recovery processes
• Ensure luxury hospitality and fine-dining standards are maintained
• Develop innovative food and beverage concepts and guest experiences
• Monitor guest feedback and implement improvements

Menu and Concept Development

• Work with Executive Chefs and management teams on menu planning
• Assist in developing beverage programmes, wine lists, and dining concepts
• Ensure menus align with market trends and guest expectations
• Support promotions, events, and seasonal offerings

Compliance and Health & Safety

• Ensure all outlets comply with South African health, safety, and food hygiene regulations
• Implement and monitor HACCP and food safety standards
• Ensure licensing and legal compliance requirements are met
• Maintain occupational health and safety standards

Strategic and Commercial Responsibilities

• Develop long-term food and beverage strategies
• Identify market trends and business opportunities
• Support brand growth and operational expansion
• Collaborate with Sales and Marketing teams on promotions and events
• Assist with opening new outlets or properties where required

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Requirements and Qualifications

Education

• Diploma or Degree in Hospitality Management, Food & Beverage Management, Culinary Arts, or related field
• Additional wine, beverage, or business management qualifications are advantageous

Experience

• Minimum 7–10 years’ experience in Food & Beverage operations
• At least 3–5 years in a senior management or multi-unit leadership role
• Experience within luxury hotels, resorts, lodges, or hospitality groups preferred
• Strong background in fine dining, banqueting, and high-volume operations

Technical Knowledge

• Strong understanding of food costing and beverage cost control
• Budgeting and financial management experience
• Knowledge of South African hospitality legislation and labour laws
• Experience with POS systems and stock control systems
• Understanding of HACCP and food safety regulations

Skills and Competencies

• Strong leadership and people management skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
• Strategic thinking and commercial awareness
• High attention to detail and service excellence
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple operations
• Problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Strong organisational and time-management skills
• Guest-focused mindset

Additional Requirements

• Ability to travel between properties
• Valid driver’s licence often required
• Flexibility to work weekends, holidays, and extended hours
• Strong understanding of luxury hospitality standards
• Experience managing multicultural teams is advantageous

Key Performance Areas (KPAs)

• Revenue growth
• Food and beverage profitability
• Guest satisfaction scores
• Staff retention and development
• Cost control and budgeting
• Operational consistency
• Health and safety compliance
• Brand standards implementation

This role requires a balance of operational excellence, financial management, leadership, and high-level guest service delivery across multiple hospitality properties.

To apply send your full updated cv with copies of all qualifications and contactable references to admin1@cedar-wood.co.za

Executive Chef – Luxury Lodge 📍 Zambezi Region, Namibia An exciting opportunity for a creative and operationally strong Executive Chef to join a new remote luxury tented camp lodge in the Zambezi Region. Located along the Kwando River, the lodge is positioned within a remote landscape The role requires a hands-on culinary leader with experience in luxury safari, remote hospitality environments, staff development, menu engineering, and cost control. Local applicants and valid work permit holders are preferred; however experienced expatriate candidates are welcome to apply.

The Executive Chef will be responsible for the overall management and operation of the kitchen

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Oversee all kitchen operations and food production
• Design and develop creative menus suited to the establishment and target market
• Ensure high standards of food quality, presentation, and consistency
• Manage food costing, budgeting, and stock control
• Monitor and control food waste and kitchen expenses
• Supervise, train, and motivate kitchen staff
• Create staff rosters and manage kitchen scheduling
• Ensure compliance with health, hygiene, and food safety regulations
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of all kitchen areas
• Order supplies and negotiate with suppliers and vendors
• Manage inventory and stock rotation procedures
• Ensure guest dietary requirements and special requests are accommodated
• Develop and standardise recipes and kitchen systems
• Work closely with management to improve guest satisfaction and profitability
• Introduce seasonal menus and innovative culinary concepts
• Ensure proper maintenance and use of kitchen equipment
• Conduct regular quality checks and kitchen inspections
• Assist with recruitment and performance management of kitchen staff
• Maintain strong communication between kitchen and front-of-house teams

Requirements and Qualifications

• Formal culinary qualification or diploma in Professional Cookery/Culinary Arts
• Minimum 5–8 years’ experience in professional kitchens
• At least 3 years’ experience in a senior management or Executive Chef role
• Experience within hotels, lodges, resorts, or fine-dining establishments preferred
• Strong knowledge of food costing and kitchen financial management
• Experience with menu planning and recipe development
• Knowledge of HACCP, food safety, and hygiene standards
• Ability to manage large kitchen teams under pressure
• Excellent leadership and communication skills
• Strong organisational and time-management abilities
• Ability to work long hours, weekends, and public holidays
• Computer literacy for stock systems, reporting, and administration
• Experience in remote lodge operations is advantageous in Namibia
• Knowledge of international cuisine and modern food trends
• Valid work permits/documentation if applying internationally

Desired Skills

• Leadership and team development
• Creativity and innovation
• Attention to detail
• Problem-solving ability
• Budget and cost control
• Menu engineering
• Staff training and mentoring
• Customer service focus
• Adaptability and flexibility
• Strong operational management

Experience in the following areas will be valued:

• Bush dining and outdoor catering
• Sustainable and locally sourced ingredients
• International guest expectations
• Multi-cultural kitchen teams

To apply please send your full up to date cv with your professional head and shoulder photo, copies of all qualifications and food portfolio to admin1@cedar-wood.co.za

General Manager – Luxury Lodge 📍 Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe   We are seeking an experienced and operationally focused General Manager to lead one of our luxury lodges in Victoria Falls. The ideal candidate will have strong lodge and guest experience expertise, with the ability to lead teams in a high-touch, ultra-luxury environment.   Preference will be given to Zimbabwean nationals or candidates already holding valid work rights for Zimbabwe.   About the Role This is a key leadership position responsible for the overall management and performance of the luxury lodge. The General Manager will drive operational excellence, deliver exceptional guest experiences, achieve strong financial results, and maintain the highest service standards in a premium safari/lodge setting.   The role requires a hands-on leader who can balance strategic oversight with day-to-day operational involvement in a remote, high-profile destination.   Key Responsibilities   Leadership & Team Management - Provide strong, visible leadership to the entire lodge team, including all Heads of Departments (Front Office, Housekeeping, Food & Beverage, Maintenance, Safari/Guiding, Finance, and Admin). - Recruit, train, develop, and retain high-performing talent, with emphasis on building a skilled local team while upholding international luxury standards. - Foster a positive, collaborative, and guest-focused culture that motivates staff to deliver personalised, high-touch service. - Manage staffing levels, rosters, performance reviews, and employee development programmes.   Guest Experience & Service Excellence - Ensure consistently outstanding, personalised guest experiences from pre-arrival to departure. - Maintain and exceed guest satisfaction scores through proactive service recovery, attention to detail, and bespoke offerings. - Oversee all lodge activities, dining experiences, and tailored excursions that showcase the Victoria Falls region. - Personally engage with VIP guests, travel partners, and key stakeholders to build loyalty and drive repeat business.   Operations & Property Management - Oversee all day-to-day lodge operations, including accommodations, food & beverage, maintenance, procurement, logistics, and safety. - Maintain the property to the highest standards through effective preventative maintenance, upkeep, and presentation. - Ensure full compliance with health, safety, environmental, and local regulatory requirements. - Implement and uphold Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and brand service standards.   Financial Management & Business Performance - Prepare, manage, and monitor the annual budget, forecasts, and monthly financial reports (P&L responsibility). - Drive revenue optimisation (occupancy, ADR, RevPAR) while controlling costs and maximising profitability. - Identify and implement operational efficiencies and cost-saving initiatives. - Manage procurement, supplier relationships, and inventory controls.   Strategy, Sustainability & Stakeholder Relations - Contribute to the development and execution of the lodge’s strategic and marketing plans. - Champion sustainability, conservation, and community engagement initiatives. - Build and maintain strong relationships with local communities, authorities, tourism boards, and industry partners. - Monitor market trends and competitor activity in the Victoria Falls luxury segment.   Reporting - Provide regular performance reports, insights, and recommendations to senior management.   Requirements & Qualifications - Minimum 5–8 years’ progressive hospitality experience, with at least 3–5 years as General Manager (or Deputy GM in a similar sized operation) in a 5-star luxury lodge, safari camp, or boutique hotel — preferably in Africa. - Proven track record managing luxury guest experiences and leading high-performing teams. - Strong financial acumen with direct P&L responsibility. - Tertiary qualification in Hospitality Management, Tourism, or Business Administration is preferred. - Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. - Ability to thrive in a remote location and work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays. - Fluency in English; additional local language skills would be advantageous.   Personal Attributes - Passionate about delivering unforgettable luxury experiences - Hands-on, solution-oriented, and operationally strong - Culturally sensitive with a genuine interest in Zimbabwe and its tourism offering - High integrity, resilience, and adaptability   This is a live-out position and offers a competitive package for the right candidate. Please forward applications to cam@cedar-wood.co.za

Assistant Lodge Management Couple We are seeking a dynamic and experienced couple to join our luxury private game reserve. This is a hands-on role suited to a couple where one partner fulfils the role of Field Guide, General Maintenance and Management support, and the other oversees Reservations, Administration, and Management Support.   This position requires professionalism, flexibility, and a genuine passion for hospitality, conservation, and exceptional guest experiences.   Location:  Private Game Reserve / Luxury Lodge – Western Cape Start Date:  As soon as possible Accommodation: On-site accommodation provided   Position 1: Field Guide & General Maintenance (Partner 1) Key Responsibilities Field Guiding & Guest Experience

• Conduct guided game drives and nature walks (where qualified)
• Interpret wildlife, ecology, and conservation to guests
• Ensure guest safety during activities
• Create memorable, personalized guest experiences

  Reserve & Lodge Maintenance

• General maintenance of property infrastructure, vehicles, and equipment
• Basic plumbing, electrical, and mechanical tasks
• Maintain reserve roads, signage, and outdoor areas
• Assist with reserve management where required

  Operational Support

• Guest and staff transfers and logistics
• Support lodge operations during busy periods
• Work closely with management to ensure smooth daily operations

  Requirements

• Valid FGASA qualification (minimum Level 1 preferred)
• PDP and valid driver’s license
• Practical maintenance skills (hands-on and solutions-driven)
• Strong communication and guest-facing skills
• Physically fit and able to work flexible hours
• Previous lodge or reserve experience essential

    Position 2: Reservations, Administration & Management Assistant (Partner 2) Key Responsibilities Reservations & Guest Communication

• Manage reservations, enquiries, and confirmations
• Handle booking systems, rates, and availability
• Communicate with guests before, during, and after their stay
• Liaise with agents and tour operators
• Hosting of guests from time to time

  Administration & Office Management

• General lodge administration and filing
• Assist with invoicing, payments, and financial admin
• Prepare reports for management
• Maintain guest records and operational documentation

  Management Support

• Assist management with daily operations
• Coordinate staff schedules and logistics
• Support guest check-ins, check-outs, and special requests
• Ensure brand standards and guest expectations are upheld

Requirements

• Previous reservations and hospitality administration experience
• Nightsbridge or similar booking platform experience essential
• Strong computer literacy (email, booking systems, Excel/Google Workspace)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and professional
• Ability to work independently and handle pressure
• Luxury hospitality experience preferred

  Couple Requirements

• Proven experience working together in a lodge or hospitality environment
• Strong teamwork and communication skills
• Professional, guest-focused, and adaptable
• Dedicated and looking for long term placement
• Willingness to live on-site in a semi remote environment
• Willingness to work longer and irregular hours
• Valid South African work permits (if applicable)
• Position suited to a couple without dependents

  Package & Benefits

• R25 000 – R35 000 combined salary (based on experience)
• On-site accommodation provided
• Utilities included
• Opportunity to grow within a unique luxury hospitality environment

  To apply, forward a comprehensive CV (in Word format), all supporting proof of qualifications as well as a clear head and shoulders profile picture to: jacques@cedar-wood.co.za

Couple Position - Field Guide and Duty Manager. We are recruiting for a Field Guide and Duty Manager Couple for our client’s Luxury Safari River Lodge based in Zululand – KZN.   Both the candidates will have the following benefits included in their package: -  Live in position -  Meals while on duty as well as a variety of groceries for while off duty -  Compulsory provident fund.   Requirements for Guide: -  FGASA level 1 minimum -  DEAT registered -  2 years working experience minimum -  Valid PDP and driver’s license -  Valid first aid Level 1 minimum -  Salary of R9500 neg depending on experience All their guides also form part of the maintenance team and therefore some experience with maintenance is beneficial.   Requirements for Duty manager: -  1-year previous working experience in similar role -  Valid Driver’s license -  Valid first aid level 1 - Preferred -  Salary R9000 Neg depending on experience The Duty manager should be able to handle in-camp issues, use initiative, work alone and well under pressure.   It is very important to acknowledge that our client has a very small team and working in close quarters with each other, a friendly demeanour and attitude is what they need. They need the couple to be energetic, eager to learn and dive in.  Also handle staff confidently and respectfully and able to discern work from personal.   To apply, forward a comprehensive CV (in Word format), all supporting proof of qualifications as well as a clear head and shoulders profile picture to: jacques@cedar-wood.co.za   Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted within 7 days of applying. If you don’t get feedback, please regard your CV as not shortlisted.