Job Summary This is a live-in position. The Assistant Head Guide assists the Head Guide with developing the annual plans for Guide operations, befitting Sanbona Wildlife Reserve. The role supports the Head Guide with implementation of systems and conditions that enable the Guide operations to provide guests with outstanding guiding and services that are of exceptional quality, informative, safe and responsive to individual needs. The role also works closely with the Head Guide to ensure that the desired standards are documented, and processes and procedures implemented are adhered to. The Assistant Head Guide assists with providing information for the preparation of the Guide Operations budget and with annual plans for the Guide operations. The Assistant Head Guide assists with monitoring the performance of Guide operations, ensuring that the guiding team continuously develops and displays, at all times, the level of competence, professionalism, excellence, protocol and etiquette that is expected. Responsibilities Assist the Head Guide with developing annual plans for Guide operations and ensuring adherence to standards and procedures. Support implementation of systems and conditions that enable guiding operations to deliver high-quality, informative, safe, and responsive guest services. Collaborate with the Head Guide to document standards and ensure processes and procedures are followed. Assist with preparing the Guide Operations budget and annual plans. Monitor performance of Guide operations and support continuous development of the guiding team to maintain competence, professionalism, excellence, protocol and etiquette. Qualifications and Skills Strategic thinking: ability to develop strategic direction for the Guide function to support organisational aims. Ability to influence senior leadership teams. Ability to implement change and support people through times of transition. Ability to oversee multiple demands and lead multiple teams; strong verbal and numerical abilities; ability to communicate detailed information and instruction. Ability to anticipate the unexpected and to recognise safety or security concerns. Experience leading the Guide team and overseeing multiple teams; experience preparing organisation-wide annual plans including budgets and monitoring financial performance; developing and enforcing policies, processes and standards across Guide functions; improving operational effectiveness and efficiency; ensuring compliance with health, safety, security and other legal requirements. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications. Work Experience & Academic Qualifications 5 to 8 years of experience in a luxury Field Guide leadership role; demonstrated experience in a luxury lodge environment. Diploma in Nature Conservation or similar; FGASA Level 2 min (NQF4) - Level 3 Preferred; Trails Guide. Valid Drivers and PDP license; Advanced Rifle Handling Certificate; Level 1 First Aid. Personal Qualities Committed to providing exceptional levels of service to others; demonstrates exceptional levels of integrity; ability to work effectively when under pressure; flexible approach to getting work done; emotionally stable, even tempered and calm when placed with challenges; maintains a positive outlook in challenging situations; models positive team values; demonstrates high levels of resilience in demanding environments; ability to establish strong relationships with people from different backgrounds. Sanbona shall apply the employment equity principles as set out in the Employment Equity policy and Plan. Interested applicants should submit a comprehensive Resume/CV with all supporting documents to Apply Below by no later than 07 June 2026. #J-18808-Ljbffr