Cedar Wood Recruitment is now recruiting for our client, a luxury lodge based in Bela Bela for a professional and personable Front Office Administrator / Receptionist to join their team. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a guest-facing environment while maintaining strong administrative and financial discipline behind the scenes.

An essential part of the lodge team, the Front Office Administrator / Receptionist plays a key role in both guest-facing service and behind-the-scenes coordination. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

The role involves managing front desk operations, guest check-ins, and reservations with professionalism and warmth. It includes handling billing, payments, and daily financial reconciliations, maintaining accurate records, and supporting reporting processes. The administrator also oversees petty cash, stock control for retail areas, and assists with basic bookkeeping. Strong system proficiency, attention to detail, and the ability to support both guests and internal teams are essential to ensure smooth lodge operations. Reporting directly to the Resident Manager and Assistant Resident Manager, you will be responsible for managing and overseeing all key functions outlined below, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations and exceptional service delivery across the lodge: Key Responsibilities – Front Office & Guest Services – Ensure smooth and efficient check-in and check-out procedures – Greet and welcome guests with warmth and professionalism – Manage front desk operations, including calls, emails, bookings, and general inquiries – Maintain a clean, organized, and inviting reception area – Schedule appointments and coordinate lodge calendars – Support other departments with administrative coordination as needed Reservations & Billing – Manage PMS system settings and ensure accurate rate and reservation data – Bill guests promptly and ensure accounts are balanced daily – Adhere strictly to credit control procedures and maintain proper documentation – Reconcile daily cash, floats, and credit card transactions, investigating any variances Finance & Reporting – Process payments and allocations on PMS and reconcile with NEBULA reporting – Manage petty cash with secure documentation and daily reconciliation – Provide basic bookkeeping support, including purchases against budgets and payroll assistance – Compile and distribute daily revenue and EOD reports with accurate postings Stock & Systems Management – Monitor and manage stock control for the Wellness Centre and Curio Shop – Assist with scheduled stocktakes and ensure accurate reporting and reconciliation – Ensure all control systems operate effectively and within agreed parameters System & Software Proficiency – Proficient in Microsoft Office, especially Excel – Working knowledge of hospitality PMS systems such as NEBULA, APEX, or OPERA, especially OPERA CLOUD

Minimum Experience & Requirements

• Minimum 2–3 years’ experience in a similar hospitality role
• Matric certificate required; further qualifications are advantageous
• Confident navigating digital systems and applications, with strong proficiency in Microsoft Office—particularly Excel—and hands-on experience using hospitality Property Management Systems such as NEBULA, APEX, or OPERA
• The ideal candidate will be tech-savvy, detail-oriented, and able to work efficiently across multiple platforms to support smooth lodge operations
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to multitask, attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and a positive attitude
• Good command of the English language
• Well-spoken and presentable
• Matric Certificate
• Valid RSA ID
• Driver’s Licence is beneficial but not essential

Level

General Staff

Salary

This is a live-in position. Meals are provided while on duty. The package includes a mandatory 5% company contribution toward the provident fund. Email admin1@cedar-wood.co.za

Cedar Wood Recruitment is now recruiting for our client, a luxury safari lodge based in the Kruger National Park for a dynamic, hands-on Lodge Manager who thrives in both guest-facing and operational environments. This unique role blends the warmth and leadership of lodge management with the precision and accountability of administrative oversight.

If you’re a natural host with a head for numbers, a heart for hospitality, and the resilience to lead in a remote luxury setting, we’d love to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Management: – Oversee daily lodge operations, ensuring seamless guest experiences and efficient team coordination – Lead and mentor staff across departments, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability – Maintain high standards of service, cleanliness, and safety throughout the lodge – Accurately capture and manage guest reservations, ensuring all booking details are complete and correct while liaising remotely with the central reservations office in Johannesburg – Build and maintain strong relationships with travel agents and tour operators to support repeat business and positive brand representation – Oversee internal guest transfers and room allocations, ensuring smooth coordination and optimal guest experience – Perform duty manager shifts, including hosting guests and supervising service teams to ensure seamless daily operations – Drive on-site sales of beverages and curios, maintaining stock levels and promoting guest engagement – Coordinate and execute bush experiences such as picnics, gin stops, and bespoke outdoor setups, tailored to guest preferences – Demonstrate initiative and creativity in planning and delivering memorable moments for special occasions and celebrations Administrative & Financial Management – Manage lodge budgets, revenue tracking, and expense control to ensure financial sustainability – Prepare and submit accurate daily, weekly, and monthly financial and performance reports – Reconcile petty cash, credit card transactions, and supplier invoices, maintaining transparent records – Monitor Property Management System (PMS) trial balances and resolve discrepancies promptly – Support internal and external audits by ensuring compliance with financial controls and standard operating procedures – Oversee inventory management and conduct regular stock takes across departments – Investigate financial variances and implement proactive cost-control measures to optimize lodge operations Guest Experience – Personally welcome guests and ensure their stay exceeds expectations – Handle guest feedback with professionalism and empathy – Uphold confidentiality and protect guest and lodge property Staff Leadership – Lead recruitment, onboarding, and performance management of lodge and camp staff. – Conduct training, appraisals, and disciplinary procedures in line with company policy. – Foster a culture of excellence, respect, and continuous development. – Build strong interdepartmental relationships to ensure operational effectiveness Compliance & Sustainability – Actively participates in the Health and Safety committee to uphold workplace standards. – Well-versed in Employment Equity principles and reporting requirements. – Demonstrates a solid understanding of labour law and confidently manages disciplinary procedures when required. – Ensure adherence to SANParks regulations, environmental standards, and safety protocols. – Maintain up-to-date licences and permits for camp operations and staff. – Champion eco-conscious practices and community development initiatives. Health & Safety – Implement emergency procedures and ensure staff training and drills. – Maintain compliance with OHS legislation and lodge standards. Reporting & Communication – Maintain clear communication channels with staff, guests, and senior leadership. – Provide regular updates on lodge performance, guest feedback, and operational incidents. – Support internal and external audits and ensure documentation accuracy. Continuous Improvement – Analyse feedback to identify areas for enhancement. – Introduce innovative ideas aligned with the Lodge brand.

Minimum Experience & Requirements

• 3-5 years’ experience in luxury lodge or hospitality management, with strong administrative exposure
• Strong leadership, interpersonal, and crisis management skills.
• Excellent communication and financial acumen.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and Property Management Systems (e.g., Apex, Opera).
• Valid driver’s licence
• First aid training and knowledge are beneficial.
• Fluency in English; knowledge of Shangaan or other African languages is advantageous.
• Professional, detail-oriented, and guest-centric.
• Adaptable, resilient, and composed under pressure.
• Self-disciplined, punctual, and respectful.
• Passionate about hospitality, nature, and cultural engagement.
• Able to work independently and take full responsibility for tasks.
• Strong organisational skills and financial acumen.
• Warm and welcoming demeanor with a commitment to excellence.

Level

Management

Salary

The position is available to either a single candidate or a couple, provided one partner is a qualified Field Guide or Camp Manager. – This is a live-in role, suitable for individuals or couples. – Accommodation and meals are provided. – Leave includes 7 consecutive days off per month and 21 consecutive days of annual leave. – Applicants must supply contactable references from at least three previous managers. A highly competitive, market-related package will be discussed during interviews or upon request. The package includes a Provident fund of which the company contributes 5%.

Apply

Please submit your letter of motivation, qualifications and CVs by close of business on 25 September 2025. Note: Candidates must be willing and able to travel to the Kruger National Park for interviews if required. Due to the lodge’s remote location, we are unable to accommodate candidates with pets or young children

• Salary R18000 – R20000 MAX Gross – this will depend on what qualifications & experience they have
• 5% provident fund is available (compulsory)
• Valid RSA ID is required
• Proven track record within a luxury hotel/lodge environment as per attached spec
• NOTE: Company Retirement Age is 60

Email CV to admin1@cedar-wood.co.za

A luxury lodge on the Mluwati Concession situated in the Kruger National Park is seeking an experienced Field Guide with a minimum of 3 years’ experience in a Big 5 Game Reserve and Luxury Lodge environment. This is a couples-only position, with the partner employed as a Lodge Administrator or Camp Manager. The guide plays a pivotal role in the success of a lodge operation, as they engage extensively with guests throughout a significant part of each day. The safari experience is often the primary motivation for guests visiting Africa. Consequently, the guide’s professionalism and ability to convey knowledge in a safe yet immersive manner significantly shape the overall guest experience. Key Responsibilities Conducting Safaris: – Lead game drives, bush walks and other activities to provide guests with an immersive and educational wildlife experience. – Ensure the safety of guests during all safari activities. Wildlife Knowledge: – Possess in-depth knowledge of the local wildlife, including animal behaviour, bird species, and plant life. – Share information about the environment, ecology, community, and conservation efforts with the guests. Guest Interaction: – Interact with guests in a professional and friendly manner, providing excellent customer service. – Answer questions and engage in informative discussions about the wildlife and surrounds. – Be sensitive to guest’s preferences such as birders, looking for specific species, and try and manage their expectation within the context of what nature delivers. – Ensure that you are able to adjust your engagement when you have a number of different nationalities and generations on your vehicle/walk. – Be sensitive to guests who want limited interaction with the guide and those who want more engagement and tailor your response accordingly. – Hosting guests at meals and/or for drinks, as required by the Camp Manager or your guests. – If guests reveal problems or additional special requirements that are not yet recorded in the day sheet or guest preferences, or that the management are not aware of, then these must be communicated to the Camp Manager as soon as they become known, and you are able to do so discreetly. Food & Beverage: – Service of food and beverages by the guide must be in accordance with hygienic standards which must be adhered to in accordance with the SOP and general good hygienic practices. – Must have a knowledge of the wines and spirits served in the camps and be able to serve them correctly on game drives according to the SOPs for serving wine, spirits and non-alcoholic drinks. – Be familiar with the service of coffee and tea according to the set SOPs. – Must have a full understanding of the meals served in the bush and be aware of dietary requirements. Vehicle & Equipment Maintenance: – Conduct routine daily checks of your vehicle and equipment in accordance with the Guide’s SOP and the requirements of the Maintenance Department. – Ensure your vehicle has all the relevant equipment as required by the SOP checklist and that the equipment is in working order. – – Ensure you have all the right safety protocols in place according to the SOP checklist. – Ensure that you always have the prescribed refreshments according to the set SOP for cooler boxes and hot boxes and that you are familiar with your guest’s dietary and special requirements. Environmental Conservation: – Ensure you are familiar with SANParks rules and regulations relating to the concession/reserve within which you operate. – Be sensitive to the environment and avoid off-road driving as far as is possible within the concession. Off-road driving is strictly prohibited in the Kruger National Park itself. – Comply with the Game Driving Protocol at all times. – When conducting walks and drives ensure that guests are educated on the importance of conservation and responsible tourism. Emergency Response: – Be prepared to handle emergency situations and provide first aid, if necessary, in accordance with the company emergency protocols and first aid training protocols. – Maintain a calm disposition and act with decision ensuring your and the guests’ safety at all times. In Camp Support: – Must be able to deal with problem animal control in accordance with the SANParks rules and always ensuring the safety of guests and camp staff. – Educate the camp staff on how to behave around dangerous animals. – Take on driver duties to facilitate smooth camp operations when not guiding by transporting staff between the staff village and main area. – Assist with guest luggage. – Assist with guest pick-up and drop-off to and from the airport/gates, even if these are not your assigned guests – Assist with staff transfers, as required. – Assist with game drive link-ups for guests who arrive late or need to leave early, and vehicle recoveries for vehicles that breakdown. – Assist with camp maintenance and the workshop when requested to do so. Rifle Handling: – Ensure that you have made the request with the Head Guide to draw the rifle and ammunition from the safe in a suitable time before taking your guests out on a walk and ensure it is returned immediately upon getting back to the camp after the walking activity. – Handle your rifle according to best practice and the SOP ensuring that the right paperwork is completed for taking the equipment out of the safe, and that the bolt, rifle and ammunition are stored separately. – Ensure that the rifle is always clean and in perfect working condition. Minimum Experience & Requirements

• A valid and current South African guide’s licence and valid PDP special driver’s licence.
• FGASA Qualification Minimum of NQF 4 with Backup Trails. Lead Trails will be a bonus.
• DEAT Registration (Mpumalanga).
• 3 Years’ Experience as a Field Guide/Ranger in a Big Five Game Reserve
• Self-disciplined, punctual, and respectful.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for international guests with diverse cultures. Must have an outgoing hosting personality.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for staff, being respectful of their culture. A basic knowledge of Shangaan or another African language is recommended.
• Must be familiar with basic vehicle maintenance to communicate with the maintenance team to troubleshoot problems.
• Must be familiar with how to drive in a variety of on- and off-road conditions.
• Must be familiar with radio etiquette and able to ensure that radio conversations are kept short and direct, with no unnecessary chatter.
• Good initiative to cope with difficult situations in a remote environment.
• A valid first aid training certificate to handle trauma care.

  Couples Live-In Role (with partner employed as Lodge Administrator/Camp Manager) or single applicants. Shared accommodation provided. Meals Included All meals are provided while on duty. Time Off – 7 consecutive days off per month – 21 consecutive days annual leave per annum References Required Applicants must provide contactable references from at least three previous managers. Remuneration Full package details will be discussed during the interview process. The package includes a Provident fund of which the company contributes 5%. NOTE that contract conditions will apply. Pets and Children will not be allowed due to the nature of the environment. Apply To apply forward comprehensive CV and all supporting documentation to ronel@cedar-wood.co.za by close of business on the 17^th  of September 2025. Only applicants with required qualifications will be considered. Please ensure all qualifications are attached and verifiable.

We are currently recruiting for a Reservationist Consultant for an established luxury lodge and hotel group in Bryanston - Southern Africa. They are seeking a detail-oriented and service-driven Reservations Consultant to join their dynamic central reservations team based in Bryanston, Johannesburg. Renowned for its iconic safari lodges and boutique properties that attract a discerning international clientele, the group upholds the highest standards of excellence in hospitality. As a Reservations Consultant, you will play a vital role in ensuring seamless guest experiences, managing bookings across multiple platforms, and supporting operational excellence across our portfolio. In the hospitality industry, a Reservations Consultant plays a crucial role in delivering exceptional guest service and operational efficiency. Within luxury hotels and lodges, this role is essential to maintaining high occupancy, accurate records, and smooth communication between guests and operational teams. As a Reservations Consultant, you contribute to the success of the business by handling bookings, managing availability, and supporting revenue forecasts—all while upholding the refined standards that define luxury hospitality. Your professionalism and attention to detail help drive guest satisfaction and reinforce the brand’s reputation for excellence. Key Responsibilities

• Respond promptly and professionally to reservation inquiries via telephone, WhatsApp, email, online platforms, and central reservation systems
• Process bookings for accommodation, transfers, conferencing, functions, and activities across multiple properties
• Manage cancellations, modifications, and refunds in line with company policies and guest expectations
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date reservation records, including arrival lists and alphabetical listings
• Prepare letters of confirmation and assist with preregistration activities when required
• Monitor room availability and track future occupancy to support revenue and forecasting efforts
• Apply correct room rates and package benefits based on selling tactics and availability
• Communicate reservation details clearly to front office and operational teams
• Ensure compliance with credit policies and deposit requirements
• Promote goodwill by being courteous, friendly, and helpful to guests, colleagues, and partners
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, ensuring all correspondence and files are up to date
• Undertake any reasonable requests made by management in support of broader operational goals

Minimum Experience & Requirements

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in a tourism/travel call Centre or reservations department for multiple properties
• Excellent command of English (verbal and written)
• Strong interpersonal and time management skills
• Valid RSA ID
• Dynamic, self-starter, problem solver, team player
• Presentable and professional appearance
• Matric (minimum); a relevant tertiary qualification is advantageous.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, especially Excel (intermediate to advanced).
• Familiarity with hospitality systems – eRES / Nebula, Opera Cloud & Apex
• CRM platforms

    Remuneration on offer:

• Salary R20K COST TO COMPANY MAX
• 5% provident fund is available (compulsory)
• Access to reliable transport
• Valid RSA ID is required as well as clear criminal check
• Proven track record within a luxury hotel/lodge environment as per attached spec
• NOTE: Company Retirement Age is 60
• Candidates must be available for interview in person

    To apply please forward a comprehensive CV, all supporting proof of qualifications as well a clear salary expectation to ronel@cedar-wood.co.za before end of business on 22^nd September 2025 We appreciate your interest in joining their team. If you haven’t received feedback within two weeks of the closing date, kindly consider your application unsuccessful.  

FIELD GUIDE OPPORTUNITY

Are you a passionate conservationist with a flair for exceptional guest experiences? We are seeking a dynamic, hands-on individual to join our dedicated team at a premier private game reserve. This is a unique role that blends the thrill of guiding guests through pristine wilderness with the vital responsibilities of maintaining our beautiful property and ensuring the health of our ecosystem. Your Role Will Encompass:

• Expert Guiding: Lead unforgettable safari experiences, sharing your deep knowledge of flora, fauna, and the intricate workings of the bush with discerning guests.
• Reserve Stewardship: Actively participate in the ongoing care and maintenance of the reserve, contributing to habitat management and conservation efforts.
• Practical Maintenance: Apply your practical skills to the upkeep of vehicles, infrastructure, and general property maintenance, ensuring everything runs smoothly and safely.
• Problem Solving: Utilize your resourcefulness to tackle challenges that arise in a remote and dynamic environment.

We Are Looking For Someone Who Is:

• Experienced: Possesses proven experience as a ranger or field guide within a high-end lodge or private reserve setting.
• Passionate: Demonstrates genuine enthusiasm for guest service, wildlife, and the natural environment.
• Skilled: Has solid practical abilities in vehicle and infrastructure maintenance, along with a knack for general upkeep and problem-solving.
• Reliable & Trustworthy: Exhibits a high degree of integrity, dependability, and a strong work ethic.
• A Team Player: Works effectively and collaboratively with colleagues.
• Flexible: Is willing and able to work varied hours, including weekends and public holidays.
• Communicative: Possesses excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of engaging with guests and staff from diverse backgrounds.

If you are driven by a love for wildlife, a commitment to conservation, and a desire to provide unparalleled guest service, we encourage you to apply. Please forward applications to cam@cedar-wood.co.za