Cedar Wood Recruitment - Hospitality Jobs
Cedar Wood Recruitment is a specialized recruitment agency catering for the hospitality industry. With over 18 years’ experience servicing our clients we stand out as an industry leader in sourcing superior candidates. Our main objective is to introduce high quality staff to companies in the hospitality sector. We believe in developing and maintaining long-term relationships with our clients as well as our candidates, who are carefully selected to ensure a successful introduction of candidate to client.
Protection of Personal information policy (PoPi)
As a recruitment business we introduce candidates to clients for permanent employment, temporary worker placements or independent professional contracts. The exchange of personal data of our candidates and our client contacts is a fundamental and essential part of the recruitment process. In order to support our candidates' career aspirations and our clients' resourcing needs we require a database of candidate and client personal data containing historical employment information as well as current resourcing requirements. To maintain, expand and develop our business we need to record the personal data of prospective candidates and client contacts. Due to the nature of our business we will never store your personal data for a period longer than 5 years without having meaningful contact with you in this time period. If you have not received any meaningful contact from us or have not accessed our website in the past 5 years, your personal information will be deleted from our systems. Your personal information will not be shared or sold to any 3rd party. Your information is solely used for the purposes of job recruitment.
By applying for a job via the Cedar Wood Recruitment website your CV and Cedar Wood Recruitment profile will be shared with the Recruiter who has advertised the position. We recommend that you remove any non-essential personal information from your CV and Profile. Cedar Wood Recruitment will store your information until you ask us to delete your Cedar Wood Recruitment account or you have not engaged with our services for a period of 5 years or more.
Latest Job Listings
Permanent
KwaZulu-Natal
Posted 2 days ago
Description
General Manager – Luxury Big 5 Lodge KZN
R55,000-R65,000
Role Overview
The General Manager holds full operational and strategic accountability for a privately owned luxury Big 5 lodge in KZN. This role leads every department to deliver a guest experience that is quietly extraordinary, while building a sustainable, profitable, and deeply respected business.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Governance
Report directly to the shareholders and represent the lodge to owners, partners, board members and senior stakeholders.
Provide steady, values‑driven leadership to all departments, including the lodge operations, kitchen, guiding team and reserve interface.
Lead the senior management team (Head Chef, Head Ranger, Reservations and Finance Leads) with clarity, consistency and a long‑term vision.
Commercial & Strategic Management
Hold ultimate accountability for commercial performance, including revenue, occupancy, ADR, cost control and overall profitability.
Develop and execute the annual business plan and capital programme in consultation with shareholders.
Manage supplier relationships, contracting and procurement to protect margins without compromising standards.
Guest Experience
Drive a guest journey that consistently exceeds expectations, from first enquiry to post‑stay relationship management.
Maintain exceptional standards of luxury hospitality, ensuring every touchpoint reflects warmth, pride and quiet excellence.
Handle VIP guests and complex guest scenarios with professionalism and grace.
People & Culture
Build and nurture a strong organisational culture rooted in pride, respect and excellence.
Oversee recruitment, onboarding, performance management and succession planning across all departments.
Foster a cohesive, motivated team with clear communication and hands‑on leadership.
Brand, Marketing & Partnerships
Strengthen the lodge’s market positioning through relationships with travel partners, tour operators, journalists and industry bodies.
Contribute meaningfully to brand development, marketing strategy and content creation aligned with a unique Big 5 experience.
Sustainability & Conservation
Champion sustainability across operations with measurable annual goals.
Communicate and embody the lodge’s conservation ethos with guests, staff and visiting partners.
Compliance & Operational Excellence
Ensure full legal, regulatory and Health & Safety compliance across the property.
Step into any operational area when required, modelling a “lead from the front” approach.
Skills & Experience Required
Professional Background
Minimum 10 years of senior hospitality experience, including at least 3 years as a General Manager, Lodge Director or Resident Manager at a comparable luxury lodge, boutique hotel or private reserve.
Formal qualification in Hospitality Management, Business or a related field; postgraduate studies advantageous.
Operational & Commercial Competence
Proven commercial acumen with a track record of revenue growth, margin management and successful delivery of business plans.
Working knowledge of property management systems, channel management tools and financial reporting platforms.
Leadership & Guest Relations
Strong leadership presence with a calm, hands‑on style suited to a small, tight‑knit team.
Deep experience in luxury guest relations, including managing VIPs and high‑expectation guests.
Regulatory & Environmental Knowledge
Solid understanding of South African labour legislation, Health & Safety regulations and relevant lodge‑sector compliance frameworks.
Genuine passion for wildlife, conservation and the rhythms of the bush.
Personal Attributes
Polished, professional and approachable, with excellent written and spoken English.
A second language is an advantage, particularly isiZulu or major international languages.
High stamina, resilience and willingness to live on or near the property.
Valid South African driver’s licence.
South African nationality or valid work permit.
Please forward applications to cameron@cedar-wood.co.za
#LuxuryLodgeCareers
#Big5Hospitality
#SafariLeadership
#GeneralManagerJobs
#LuxuryHospitalityJobs
Job Features
Description General Manager – Luxury Big 5 Lodge KZN R55,000-R65,000 Role Overview The General Manager holds full operational and strategic accountability for a privately owned luxury Big 5 lodge in...
Permanent
East Africa
Posted 3 days ago
Lodge Camp Manager – Luxury Safari Lodge
Location:Kenya
Salary:*USD $3,000 Net per month** (Live-in Position)
Are you a passionate hospitality professional with exceptional leadership skills and a commitment to delivering unforgettable guest experiences?
We are recruiting an experienced Camp Manager to oversee the daily operations of a luxury safari camp.
Key Responsibilities
* Oversee the day-to-day management of all lodge operations.
* Ensure an exceptional guest experience from arrival to departure.
* Lead, mentor, and motivate a multi-disciplinary team.
* Manage Front Office, Housekeeping, Food & Beverage, and Maintenance departments.
* Monitor budgets, stock control, procurement, and cost management.
* Maintain the highest standards of service, cleanliness, and presentation.
* Ensure compliance with health, safety, and company policies.
* Handle guest feedback professionally and resolve any concerns promptly.
* Work closely with the Head Chef and guiding team to create memorable guest experiences.
* Prepare operational reports and manage administrative duties.
Requirements
* Minimum of **3–5 years' experience** in a Camp Manager, Lodge Manager, or similar management role within a luxury lodge or safari camp.
* Strong leadership and people management skills.
* Excellent guest relations and communication abilities.
* Financial acumen, including budgeting and stock control.
* Knowledge of hospitality systems and Microsoft Office.
* A hands-on approach with the ability to work in a remote environment.
* Excellent organisational and problem-solving skills.
* Fluent in English; additional languages will be advantageous.
* Valid driver's licence preferred.
Package
Net Salary:*USD $3,000 per month
* Live-in accommodation provided.
Meals while on duty.
Uniform provided.
Annual leave in accordance with company policy.
Opportunity to work in a prestigious luxury safari environment.
If you are an energetic hospitality leader who thrives in a luxury bush setting and is dedicated to delivering world-class guest experiences, we would love to hear from you.
Apply now by submitting your CV together with a recent professional photograph and contactable references to admin1@cedar-wood.co.za
Job Features
Lodge Camp Manager – Luxury Safari Lodge Location:Kenya Salary:*USD $3,000 Net per month** (Live-in Position) Are you a passionate hospitality professional with exceptional leadership skills and a c...
Permanent
Tanzania
Posted 3 days ago
Description
🌍 Regional Chef Trainer – Tanzania
📍 Location: Tanzania (travelling role across multiple properties) 💰 Salary: $3,000 – $3,500 per month 📝 Contract Type: Full-time👨🍳 The Role
The Regional Chef Trainer will champion culinary standards across the group’s Tanzanian properties. This is a dynamic, hands-on, travelling role ideal for a chef who thrives in diverse environments, enjoys mentoring teams, and is passionate about delivering consistent, high-quality cuisine in remote lodge settings. You will rotate between a variety of unique properties. Regular travel — including light aircraft transfers and remote camp access — is an essential part of the role.🔧 Key Responsibilities
- 🍽️ Deliver structured, hands-on culinary training to head chefs and kitchen brigades across all properties
- 📘 Develop and implement standardised recipes, menus and kitchen procedures tailored to each lodge’s setting and logistical realities
- 🧼 Train teams in food hygiene, safety and sanitation aligned with international best practice
- 🌱 Mentor and upskill junior and mid-level chefs, strengthening succession pipelines
- 🤝 Collaborate with General Managers and Executive Chefs to align menus with brand standards while celebrating local character and seasonal produce
- 📊 Support menu planning, costing, portion control and food cost management
- 🔍 Conduct kitchen audits and produce clear action plans after each visit
- 👥 Assist with onboarding and training of new culinary hires
- 🌎 Stay current with global culinary trends and dietary requirements (allergies, vegan/vegetarian, cultural considerations)
- ✈️ Travel independently and frequently, planning training schedules that minimise operational disruption
🎯 Requirements
- 🎓 Formal culinary qualification and extensive experience as a Head Chef or Executive Chef in luxury lodges, safari camps or high-end hospitality
- 👨🏫 Proven experience training, mentoring and developing kitchen teams
- 🏕️ Experience working in remote or logistically challenging environments is a strong advantage
- 🍛 Strong knowledge of international and East African cuisine, food safety and luxury food presentation
- ✈️ Willingness and ability to travel extensively, including via light aircraft
- 🗣️ Excellent communication and leadership skills
- 💪 Physically fit and adaptable to varied climates (highland cold, coastal heat)
- 🇬🇧 Fluency in English required; Swahili an advantage
- 🚗 Valid driver’s licence; Tanzanian work permit or eligibility preferred
🎁 What’s on Offer
- 💵 Competitive salary: $3,000 – $3,500 net per month
- 🌅 The chance to shape culinary standards across an award-winning luxury safari collection
- 🦁 Immersion in Tanzania’s most spectacular wilderness and coastal landscapes
- 🔄 A varied, travel-based role ideal for a chef who prefers adventure over routine
Job Features
Description 🌍 Regional Chef Trainer – Tanzania 📍 Location: Tanzania (travelling role across multiple properties) 💰 Salary: $3,000 – $3,500 per month 📝 Contract ...
Permanent
Tanzania
Posted 1 week ago
🌍 Procurement Manager – Luxury Hospitality Operations
📌 Location: Head Office, Arusha, Tanzania 🧭 Travel: Regular site visits to properties in Serengeti, Tarangire & Ngorongoro 🌐 Eligibility: Tanzanian nationals & East African residents 💼 Compensation: Competitive; negotiable based on market standards✨ Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Procurement Manager to lead procurement operations across a collection of luxury safari lodges and regional support teams in Tanzania. This role oversees sourcing of materials, goods, services, and capital assets with a strong focus on sustainability, value for money, and operational excellence. The ideal candidate will have deep experience in high-end luxury hospitality, strong supplier networks, and an understanding of the unique logistical demands of remote safari environments. A refined palate and passion for Culinary & Guest Experience—including fine wines, artisanal foods, and premium guest amenities—are essential. 📑 Reports to: Head of Operations🛠 Core Responsibilities
📋 Procurement Strategy & Planning
- Develop and refine procurement policies aligned with sustainability goals.
- Ensure timely sourcing and delivery for lodge operations, construction, vehicles, and support teams.
🔍 Strategic Sourcing
- Build relationships with ethical, reliable suppliers locally, regionally, and internationally.
- Negotiate favorable terms and service agreements.
- Conduct supplier evaluations, pricing reviews, and compliance checks.
🍷 Wine & Beverage Procurement
- Curate an exceptional wine selection showcasing regional, African, and global excellence.
- Collaborate with chefs and lodge managers on wine pairings for seasonal menus.
- Build relationships with distributors and specialty importers.
- Organize wine training for lodge staff and sommeliers.
🍽 Culinary Sourcing
- Source specialty ingredients and gourmet pantry items.
- Ensure sustainability, traceability, and ethical sourcing of all food products.
- Coordinate logistics for perishable and specialty imports.
🛎 Guest Amenities
- Curate premium in-room amenities (toiletries, scents, gift items, turndown treats).
- Align amenities with brand values and sustainability aesthetics.
- Source eco-conscious packaging and refillable solutions.
🚙 Asset & Capital Procurement
- Manage procurement of:
- Safari & logistics vehicles (open game viewers, DMC vehicles, utility vehicles)
- Luxury furnishings and lodge equipment
- Construction materials
- Sustainable energy and waste management systems
📦 Inventory & Logistics Coordination
- Support lodge-based logistics and supply chain planning.
- Ensure optimal stock levels and asset tracking across locations.
- Lead procurement of specialized safari vehicle accessories (fridges, suspension upgrades, winches, seating, etc.).
🤝 Cross-Department Collaboration
- Work with operations, lodge GMs, and finance teams on budgets and timelines.
- Manage import/export logistics and regulatory compliance.
🌱 Sustainability & Compliance
- Promote responsible sourcing aligned with conservation principles.
- Ensure compliance with procurement policies and national laws.
- Maintain accurate documentation and records.
📊 Reporting
- Monitor lodge performance against KPIs.
- Review guest feedback scores to identify improvement opportunities.
🎓 Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Procurement, Supply Chain, Logistics, or related field (Master’s/CIPS a plus).
- Minimum 7 years’ procurement experience in hospitality, tourism, or sustainability-focused industries.
- Minimum 3–5 years’ experience in F&B management or luxury hospitality retail.
- Strong knowledge of wines, spirits, gourmet ingredients, and luxury guest products.
- Proven experience in remote luxury operations and vehicle procurement.
- Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
- Familiarity with logistics, customs, and import/export procedures in East Africa.
- High ethical standards and exceptional attention to detail.
💡 Key Competencies
- Alignment with sustainability-driven hospitality values.
- Strong planning, analytical, and organizational skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
- Proactive problem-solving mindset.
- Ability to work across cultures and remote environments.
- Proficiency in procurement systems (e.g., Sage).
🌄 Working Environment
- Based at the Arusha head office with regular travel to lodges and suppliers.
- Field visits to rural or remote areas, including bush camps and workshops.
- Occasional travel across Tanzania and neighboring countries.
Job Features
🌍 Procurement Manager – Luxury Hospitality Operations 📌 Location: Head Office, Arusha, Tanzania 🧭 Travel: Regular site visits to properties in Serengeti, Tarangire & Ngor...
Permanent
Mpumalanga
Posted 1 week ago
We are recruiting for a Head Ranger - Guide for a Luxury Safari Lodge in the Northern Kruger National Park with a hands-on, guest focused approach.
Key Responsibilities
- Departmental Leadership & Staff Management
- Manage and schedule guiding and tracking rosters.
- Mentor and develop junior guides through continuous evaluation and training.
- Mediate staff issues utilizing a basic understanding of South African Labour Law.
- Conduct performance reviews and alignment meetings for the operational team.
- Guest Experience & Hospitality
- Host high-net-worth international and local clientele during meals and evening events.
- Deliver exceptional safaris including game drives, bush walks, and specialized lectures.
- Resolve guest complaints smoothly regarding wildlife sightings, safety, or routes.
- Safety & Fleet Asset Management
- Enforce strict safety rules regarding Big Five encounters, rifle handling, and off-roading.
- Inspect and maintain the lodge’s fleet of open 4x4 safari vehicles.
- Manage shooting proficiency cycles and rifle maintenance for the guiding team.
- Conservation & Concession Management
- Liaise with reserve wardens regarding environmental policies, fires, and road conditions.
- Monitor traversing rights to ensure ethical and legal boundaries are respected by all guides.
- FGASA Level 2 (NQF 4) Advanced Field Guide minimum; FGASA Level 3 Master Guide preferred.
- Lead Trails Guide
- Advanced Rifle Handling (ARH) qualification with a valid SAPS firearm competency certificate.
- DEAT / NDT Registration as a legal tourist guide in Limpopo or Mpumalanga.
- Professional Driving Permit (PrDP) alongside a valid South African code 8/10 driver's license.
- Valid First Aid Certificate (Level 1 or higher).
- Guiding Experience: Minimum 8 years as a field guide in a Big Five territory.
- Management Experience: At least 3 years in a senior or head guiding role within a 4- or 5-star luxury lodge environment.
- Soft Skills: Exceptional public speaking, crisis management, and diplomatic communication.
- Salary: Market-related salary depending on qualifications and lodge tier.
- Accommodation: Live-in position with fully provided on-site housing.
- Meals: All daily meals provided while on duty.
- Uniforms: Full safari-grade uniforms provided.
- Cycle: Typically operates on a 3-weeks-on, 1-week-off rotation (or similar schedule
Job Features
We are recruiting for a Head Ranger – Guide for a Luxury Safari Lodge in the Northern Kruger National Park with a hands-on, guest focused approach. Key Responsibilities Departmental Leadership &...