General Manager – Boutique Hotel (JB5854)
Location: KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, South Africa
Salary: R40 – 60 000 per month, based on experience
Working arrangement: On-site, live-in
Contract: Permanent
Start date: As soon as mutually agreed

This is a hands-on General Manager position at a small, high-end boutique hotel set on a private farm in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. The role is fully accountable for day-to-day operations, people leadership, guest experience, and financial oversight.

The successful candidate will take full ownership of the property, acting as the senior decision-maker on site and the primary point of accountability. This is not a desk-based role. It requires strong presence, practical judgement, and the ability to manage multiple moving parts at once.

You will lead a team of approximately 45 staff across hospitality operations, housekeeping, food and beverage, maintenance, gardens, and front office, supported by department managers.

This is a small, owner-managed operation where trust, transparency, and follow-through matter. The General Manager is expected to be fully across what is happening on the property at all times and to resolve issues without unnecessary escalation.

It will suit someone who enjoys responsibility, autonomy, and being closely involved in every aspect of a hotel’s operation.

Individuals seeking to relocate, with family are welcome to apply.

What we’re looking for
Proven experience in a General Manager, Hotel Manager, or Senior Operations Manager role within a high-end hotel, lodge, or boutique hospitality environment
A strong, grounded leadership style with the confidence to make decisions and follow through
Broad operational knowledge across food and beverage, housekeeping, maintenance, and front office
Solid financial understanding, including budgets, stock control, and management accounts
Highly organised, reliable, and detail-aware, with a strong sense of ownership
Comfortable working in a hands-on, rural environment and living on site
Clear, direct communicator who values honesty and accountability
Looking for a long-term role, not a short-term stepping stone
A confident self-starter who doesn’t wait to be asked — you notice issues early, take action, and communicate progress clearly.
Comfortable working with a hands-on owner, providing short, direct updates and solutions, and building trust through transparency and consistency.

What you’ll be responsible for
Overall operational performance of the hotel, including accommodation, food and beverage, maintenance, and grounds
Leading and supporting department managers, ensuring clear accountability and consistent standards
Managing staff rosters, timekeeping, and labour control
Oversight of financial processes including invoicing, stock reports, monthly management accounts, and cost control
Handling guest feedback and complaints professionally and decisively
Ensuring maintenance issues are addressed promptly and proactively
Being a visible host on the property, including evenings when required
Working closely with ownership, providing clear, factual updates and practical solutions
Supporting basic marketing activity and promotional initiatives where needed
This is an owner-managed environment. Success in the role depends on strong partnership with the owner: you’ll anticipate what’s likely to need attention, address issues before they escalate, and keep communication practical and outcomes-focused (what’s done, what isn’t, and what’s next).

Accommodation & package
Live-in accommodation provided: a spacious on-site house suitable for a single person, couple, or family
Utilities included (water, electricity, Wi-Fi)
Breakfast provided while on duty
Work vehicle provided for operational use on the property