Becoming a Great Plains Conservation Employee places you in a unique position from day one, unlike any other role you will find in Africa. We are a conservation group here to “Conserve and Expand Natural Habitats”. Employment opportunities with us ensure you are an ambassador for conservation and protecting our fragile but pristine areas, and this will be at the heart of everything you do. From the very beginning, you will start to make a difference in protecting the African continent. We are seeking highly motivated, energetic, and dedicated individuals, regardless of gender, who have a passion for the outdoors. Successful candidates will be based in the remote areas of the Okavango Delta, Botswana.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Gaborone
- Category: Hospitality
- Closing Date: 2026-09-07
Key Responsibilities
- Curate and maintain an exceptional wine programme aligned with the property’s culinary philosophy.
- Recommend new wines based on guest profiles, market trends and supplier offerings
- Maintain optimal stock levels.
- Monitor wine quality and storage conditions.
- Ensure correct cellar rotation and inventory control.
- Conduct regular stock counts and variance investigation.
- Introduce premium and exclusive wine experiences.
- Deliver exceptional wine service during all dining experiences.
- Recommend wines that complement seasonal menus.
- Conduct professional wine presentations and tastings.
- Host private wine dinners and pairing experiences.
- Educate guests on wine regions, grape varieties and production methods.
- Build meaningful guest relationships through personalised recommendations.
- Create memorable storytelling experiences around wine and food.
- Handle guest enquiries professionally and confidently
- Design, implement and deliver structured wine education programmes for all Front of House staff
- Mentor Food & Beverage teams.
- Coach supervisors and future sommeliers.
Requirements
- Certified Sommelier qualification (WSET, Court of Master Sommeliers, Cape Wine Academy, or equivalent).
- Hospitality Management qualification (advantageous).
- Food and Wine Pairing certification (preferred).
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in luxury hospitality.
- Experience within a 5-star lodge, luxury hotel, Relais & Châteaux property or fine dining restaurant.
- Proven experience managing wine programmes.
- Experience delivering structured training programmes.
- Strong knowledge of international wines and premium beverages.
- Train-the-Trainer qualification (advantageous).
- Ability to create tasteful food and wine pairings
- Extensive knowledge of different wines and which regions produce each type
- Knowledge of local vineyards and wineries
- Understanding of the winemaking process
- Good communication skills, confidence in presenting food and wine pairing options
- Proven track record of managing people
- Availability to work remotely
How to Apply
Apply by email: hr@greatplainconservation.com; opportunities@greatplainconservation.com
About the Company
Great Plains Conservation is conservation and tourism organization, which helps to manage several wildlife reserves in Kenya, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. The group currently operates 18 safari camps, which include luxury lodges and tented camps. Great Plains Conservation works together with local governments and community groups to promote low-density, environmentally conscious tourism, supplying economic incentives for the protection of wildlife.
Website: https://greatplainsconservation.com/
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications do I need to become a wine sommelier in Botswana?
Most employers look for a hospitality qualification such as a diploma from a local institution like the Botswana Accountancy College Hospitality School, plus recognised wine certifications such as WSET Level 2 or 3. Formal sommelier credentials (e.g., Court of Master Sommeliers) are an advantage but not always required for entry-level roles. Strong practical knowledge of wine regions, pairing, and service etiquette is essential.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of this role?
You would curate and manage the wine list, conduct tastings, advise guests on pairings, and oversee cellar stock control and ordering. As a training specialist, you would also design and deliver wine service training sessions for food and beverage staff, ensuring consistent, high-standard guest experiences.
What is the work culture like in Botswana's hospitality industry?
Botswana's hospitality sector values politeness, respect, teamwork, and punctuality, with strong emphasis on warm, personalised guest service. Safari lodges and upmarket camps often operate in remote areas, so flexibility with live-in arrangements and shift work is commonly expected.
What career progression can I expect as a sommelier in Botswana?
You can progress from assistant sommelier or F&B supervisor to head sommelier, food and beverage manager, or lodge-level training manager. Gaining international certifications and experience at high-end lodges can open doors to regional opportunities across Southern Africa.
What benefits are typically offered for hospitality roles in Botswana?
Common benefits include paid annual leave, medical aid contributions, pension fund participation, and sometimes accommodation and meals, especially at remote lodges. Specific packages vary by employer, so it is best to confirm details during the offer stage.
How do I apply, and what do employers in Botswana look for?
Apply directly through the employer's careers page or via reputable local job portals, submitting a tailored CV and cover letter highlighting your wine knowledge and training experience. Employers value proven guest-facing experience, certification evidence, references, and a genuine passion for service excellence.