Food & Beverage Manager / Wine Sommelier at Ngamiland Adventure Safaris (Pty) Limited
Job Description
Ngamiland Adventure Safaris (Pty) Ltd—the team behind the Jao Reserve and its six luxury camps in the heart of the Okavango Delta—are looking for an exceptional individual to take on the role of Food & Beverage Manager and in-house Wine Sommelier.
This role is for someone who can confidently elevate the culinary and wine experience, lead with vision and passion, and ensure our offering matches the expectations of our well-travelled, discerning guests.
ABOUT THE ROLE:
As the F&B Manager & Wine Sommelier, you will oversee all food and beverage operations within the Jao Reserve from curating refined guest dining experiences to managing inventory, training service staff, and refining wine pairings.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Guest Experience & Wine Service
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Create a thoughtful, high-end wine list tailored to the guest demographic and region
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Deliver intimate wine camp boat trips, tastings, and guides on varietals, tasting notes, and service etiquette
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Offer exceptional hosting and presentation skills
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Work with the culinary team to build food and wine pairing models and train staff accordingly
F&B Operations Management
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Standardise and monitor food and beverage service delivery
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Ensure compliance with company policies, guest service quality, and hygiene compliance
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Collaborate with chefs to plan and execute themed food and beverage offerings
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Oversee budgets, cost controls, and health, safety, and hygiene across camp
Stock & Procurement
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Source wines to present the finest selection, manage inventory and logistics
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Track wine cellar inventory and ensure optimal storage and rotation
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Liaise with the Maun procurement team on consolidated ordering and stock movement
Training & Performance
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Develop clear service SOPs and ensure practical on-site training
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Identify and grow promising local talent in wine, bar service, and hosting
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Conduct regular performance reviews with hosting and waitstaff teams
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
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Minimum 5 years’ experience in high-end hospitality (including bush or remote lodge environments)
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Formal training in Food & Beverage or Sommelier certification (WSCT Level 2+ or equivalent ideal)
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Excellent palate and knowledge of global wines, particularly South African labels
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Strong people management and training capabilities
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Confident front-of-house presence; able to host high-profile guests
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Output/results-focused and passion-driven approach to F&B and staff
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Must be comfortable working and travelling across a remote concession
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Valid drivers licence and sober habits essential
ADVANTAGEOUS:
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Cocktail mixology and spirits knowledge
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Fine dining experience (local and international)
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Public speaking and guest presentations skill
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Previous experience in Botswana or similar remote safari destinations
PACKAGE & BENEFITS:
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Competitive (commensurate with experience)
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Private management accommodation within the Jao Reserve
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Opportunity to contribute creativity to one of Botswana’s leading luxury safari brands
HOW TO APPLY:
-  Interested candidates must please submit a comprehensive application including CV, references, testimonials, training certificates, to the below email address: JOBS@JAORESERVE.COM Please use the job reference for your application to be accepted: NAS-JB-MNGR-25 Ngamiland Adventure Safaris is a majority citizen-owned organisation that values excellence, creativity, and Botswana’s unique hospitality heritage. Preference may be given to citizens where qualifications allow. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Skills:
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