Senior Private Estate & Operations Manager

About the role

O'Brien Recruitment is advertising a Senior Private Estate & Operations Manager position in the Western Cape, South Africa. The role oversees the daily operations, upkeep and presentation of high-end private properties, with significant autonomy and responsibility.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations, upkeep and presentation of high-end private properties.
• Develop, manage and monitor operational budgets, ensuring sound financial control and cost management.
• Lead, coordinate and manage household, maintenance and property support personnel.
• Set out operational procedures, staff responsibilities and performance standards.
• Plan and oversee preventative maintenance programmes, repairs and property improvements.
• Manage contractors, service providers, supplier relationships and procurement.
• Ensure exceptional standards of property presentation, housekeeping and service delivery.
• Identify operational inefficiencies and implement practical, cost-effective improvements.
• Prepare monthly financial, expenditure and operational reports, and keep property records, maintenance schedules and operational documentation.
• Anticipate challenges and implement proactive solutions so operations run smoothly with minimal supervision.

Required profile

• Minimum 5 years' experience in luxury private property management, exclusive residential estates or high-end hospitality operations.
• At least 3 years in a management or senior operational leadership role.
• Experience overseeing multiple properties or managing complex luxury hospitality operations is highly advantageous.
• Valid driver's licence and willingness to travel within the Western Cape.
• Verifiable professional references.

Required skills

• Budgeting, expenditure monitoring, cost control and financial reporting.
• Property maintenance, preventative maintenance planning and contractor management.
• Microsoft Excel and reporting.
• Excellent written and verbal English.