Job Summary
- Employer: Sky Bird (Pty) Ltd
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Maun, Botswana
- Category: Hospitality
- Closing Date: 2026-10-30
Key Responsibilities
- Leadership: At least 10 years’ leadership role in luxury safari lodges or five-star hotels. Experience in multi-property management, minimum of 2 years’ General Management experience in luxury safari operations.
- Guest experience: front office, guest services, activities, guiding and housekeeping, with personalized guest care and complaint resolution.
- Service standards: auditing luxury standards across camps and acting on guest and trade partner feedback.
- Finance and commercial: budgets, P&L review, forecasting, cost control, procurement, stock and asset management.
- Facilities and projects: remote logistics, camp and vehicle maintenance, CAPEX projects, Refurbishments and contractors and service-level agreements.
- Risk and safety: Demonstrated success in strategic planning, risk management, and compliance implementation. Advanced understanding of health, safety, and compliance frameworks within hospitality.
- People: team leadership, training, succession planning and employee relations.
- Conservation and community: conservation and anti-poaching, sustainability, and relationships with communities and authorities.
Requirements
- Diploma in Hospitality or Business Administration – Required
- Risk Management and/or Occupational Health & Safety Qualification – Highly advantageous.
How to Apply
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and experience are typically required for a Country General Manager role in Botswana's hospitality sector?
Most employers require a bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field, plus at least 8-10 years of progressive leadership experience in hotels or resorts. An MBA or postgraduate qualification is increasingly preferred for senior roles. International experience with recognized hospitality brands is highly valued in Botswana's competitive market.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Country General Manager in Botswana?
You will oversee all operational aspects including financial performance, staff management, guest satisfaction, and compliance with local regulations. Daily tasks involve strategic planning, liaising with government bodies like the Botswana Tourism Organisation, managing supplier relationships, and ensuring adherence to health and safety standards. You also represent the company at industry events and handle stakeholder relations with local communities and investors.
How does workplace culture and management style differ in Botswana compared to other countries?
Botswana's workplace culture emphasizes respect for hierarchy, consensus-building, and relationship-oriented leadership. Decision-making often involves consultation with senior team members, and building trust through personal connections is essential. Punctuality and professionalism are expected, though flexibility and patience with bureaucratic processes are necessary when dealing with government agencies.
What career progression opportunities exist after serving as Country General Manager in Botswana?
Successful GMs can advance to Regional Director roles covering Southern Africa, or move into executive positions such as Vice President of Operations for multinational hospitality groups. Some transition to consultancy, hotel ownership, or leadership roles in related sectors like tourism development or property management. Experience in Botswana's stable economy also positions you well for opportunities across the SADC region.
What benefits are typically included in senior hospitality management packages in Botswana?
Standard packages usually include medical aid coverage, pension or provident fund contributions, and annual leave of 20-25 days. Many employers provide housing allowances or accommodation, vehicle or transport allowance, and performance-based bonuses. Relocation support and school fee assistance for expatriate managers are sometimes negotiable depending on the employer.
How should I apply for a Country General Manager position, and what do Botswana employers prioritize in candidates?
Apply through professional networks, hospitality recruitment agencies, or directly via company websites and LinkedIn. Employers prioritize proven P&L management experience, local market knowledge or willingness to immerse in Botswana's culture, and strong references from reputable hospitality brands. Demonstrating understanding of Botswana's tourism landscape and commitment to community engagement will strengthen your application.
