Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Gaborone
- Category: Hospitality & Tourism
- Closing Date: 2026-07-03
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and oversee daily camp operations, ensuring adherence to Wilderness standards.
- Drive outstanding guest experiences and maintain service excellence.
- Manage, mentor, and develop camp management teams.
- Oversee recruitment, performance management, and staff welfare.
- Manage budgets, expenditure, procurement, and financial reporting.
- Ensure effective asset management, maintenance, and capital project oversight.
- Promote environmental sustainability, health, safety, and responsible tourism practices.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with concession partners, communities, and stakeholders.
- Host agents, media representatives, and key stakeholders while promoting the Wilderness brand.
Requirements
- Degree or Diploma in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
- Minimum 10 years’ senior hospitality management experience.
- Proven lodge or safari camp management experience.
- Strong operational, financial, and people management skills.
- Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities.
- Guiding experience will be an added advantage.
- Passion for conservation, wildlife, and sustainable tourism.
- Willingness to travel extensively between camps
- Outstanding people skills and ability to communicate.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Know how to manage and work in a team.
- Strong verbal skills, both written and spoken.
- Keen eye for detail.
- Ability to manage financial budgets and meet set targets
How to Apply
About the Company
Wilderness or wildlands are Earth's natural environments that have not been significantly modified by human activity, or any nonurbanized land not under extensive agricultural cultivation. The term has traditionally referred to terrestrial environments, though growing attention is being placed on marine wilderness. Recent maps of wilderness suggest it covers roughly one-quarter of Earth's terrestrial surface, but is being rapidly degraded by human activity. Even less wilderness remains in the ocean, with only 13.2% free from intense human activity.
Website: https://www.wildernessdestinations.com/africa/botswana
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and experience are typically needed for a Concession Management Couple role in Botswana?
Candidates usually require extensive experience in lodge or hospitality management, often with a focus on remote operations. Relevant qualifications in hospitality, tourism, or even conservation, coupled with strong administrative and leadership skills, are highly valued. Experience managing staff, budgets, and guest relations in a similar environment is often a prerequisite.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities and challenges for a Concession Management Couple in a remote Botswanan concession?
Responsibilities typically include overseeing all lodge operations, guest services, staff management, maintenance, and community relations. Challenges involve managing logistics in remote areas, adapting to diverse cultural expectations, and ensuring seamless guest experiences amidst environmental factors. They are also responsible for upholding safety standards and managing resources effectively.
How does the local work culture and remote living environment in Botswana influence the expectations for a management couple?
The local work culture in remote Botswanan concessions often values respect, community engagement, and adaptability to a sometimes slower pace of life. Management couples are expected to be self-sufficient, resilient, and capable of fostering a positive, cohesive team environment, often living on-site for extended periods. This environment also demands strong problem-solving skills due to limited immediate resources.
What typical benefits package, including accommodation, leave, and medical aid, can a Concession Management Couple expect?
A comprehensive benefits package typically includes on-site accommodation and meals, given the remote nature of the role. Employees can expect annual leave as per Botswanan labour law, often structured to allow for time away from the concession. Medical aid and pension contributions are common benefits provided by established employers in the tourism sector.
When applying for such a role in Botswana, what do employers typically look for in terms of skills and attributes?
Employers seek candidates with exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, especially the ability to work effectively as a couple and manage diverse teams. They highly value adaptability, resourcefulness in remote settings, a genuine passion for hospitality and conservation, and cultural sensitivity. A proven track record in managing all aspects of lodge operations and guest satisfaction is crucial.
What are the realistic career progression opportunities for a Concession Management Couple within Botswana's tourism industry?
Career progression often involves moving to larger or multiple concession areas, taking on regional management roles, or specializing in specific areas like operations or training. Opportunities may also arise in head office positions, focusing on strategic development, or even transitioning to consultant roles within the broader African safari industry. Continuous professional development and a strong performance record are key for advancing in this sector.