French speaking Lodge Receptionist, Pongola

Job Description

The Receptionist serves as the central point of contact for guests and plays a key role in delivering a warm, professional, and seamless guest experience within a luxury safari lodge environment. This position ensures accurate information flow, efficient Front of House operations, and consistent service excellence while maintaining the lodge’s standards and values.

Key Responsibilities
Guest Experience & Service

• Deliver exceptional guest service through professional, attentive, and personalised interactions.
  
• Welcome guests warmly and ensure a smooth and efficient arrival experience.
  
• Manage guest departures accurately and professionally, ensuring a positive final impression.
  
• Build and maintain positive guest relationships throughout their stay.
  
• Assist guests with enquiries relating to accommodation, dining, activities, and lodge services.
  
• Conduct guest courtesy calls to ensure satisfaction and proactively resolve concerns where possible.
  

Front Office Operations

• Work collaboratively within the Front of House team to ensure smooth daily operations.
  
• Maintain clear and effective communication with all departments regarding guest requests and operational requirements.
  
• Prepare, maintain, and update daily operational sheets with accurate accommodation, food & beverage, and guest information.
  
• Retrieve and verify reservation and guest information from the property management system to ensure operational accuracy.
  
• Monitor and respond promptly to reception emails, enquiries, and guest requests.
  
• Review reservations daily and escalate discrepancies, special requests, or operational concerns to management where required.
  
• Complete all Front of House checklists accurately and within required timeframes.
  

Administration & Compliance

• Obtain and record essential guest information prior to arrival, including dietary requirements, room preferences, special occasions, and travel details.
  
• Ensure guest confidentiality is maintained at all times.
  
• Adhere to lodge policies, procedures, safety standards, and data protection requirements.
  
• Maintain high standards of professionalism, grooming, and presentation at all times.
  

Core Competencies

• Strong verbal and written communication skills
  
• Excellent customer service and guest relations ability
  
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail
  
• Ability to multitask and work under pressure
  
• Professionalism, reliability, and discretion
  
• Strong problem-solving and guest recovery skills
  
• Ability to work effectively within a team environment
  
• Cultural awareness and sensitivity
  

Working Environment

• Luxury safari lodge environment
  
• Remote and team-oriented working environment
  
• Shift-based role including weekends and public holidays
  
• Outdoor exposure and interaction within a wildlife environment
  
• Adherence to lodge safety procedures is essential
  

Requirements

MUST SPEAK FRENCH
Previous experience in hospitality, reception, or guest relations preferred
Experience in a luxury lodge or hotel environment advantageous
Computer literacy and experience using reservation or property management systems preferred
Ability to work shifts, weekends, and public holidays

Benefits

Salary R12,000.00 a month
Live in with meals, single accommodation
Medical aid contribution and pension fund
Shared tips

Requirements
MUST SPEAK FRENCH Minimum 3 years’ hands-on experience within a 4–5-star lodge, safari camp, or boutique hospitality environment. Previous experience in guest relations, front office, reservations, or a similar hospitality role. Boutique or owner-run lodge experience advantageous. Valid Code 8 / B driver’s licence. Ability to drive manual transmission vehicles. 4x4 driving experience advantageous. Willingness to live on-site and work flexible hours in line with operational requirements. Skills & Attributes Exceptional written and verbal English communication skills. Well-spoken, articulate, and confident interacting with international guests. Strong interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence. Friendly, personable, professional, and presentable. Ability to remain calm under pressure and resolve problems effectively. Strong organisational and administrative skills. Confident using MS Office, Google Workspace, and PMS systems. Experience with ResRequest advantageous. Physically fit and comfortable standing or walking for extended periods. Personal Characteristics The ideal candidate will be: Guest-focused and service-driven Mature and professional Highly organised and detail-oriented Proactive and solution-oriented Adaptable and flexible within a dynamic lodge environment Passionate about hospitality and creating memorable guest experiences