FOOD & BEVERAGE MANAGER / WINE SOMMELIER – Ngamiland Adventure Safaris (Pty) Ltd

VACANCY
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
Create a thoughtful, high-end wine list tailored to the guest demographic and region
Deliver intimate wine camp boat trips, tastings, and guides on varietals, tasting notes, and service etiquette
Offer exceptional hosting and presentation skills
Work with the culinary team to build food and wine pairing models and train staff accordingly
F&B Operations Management
Standardise and monitor food and beverage service delivery
Ensure compliance with company policies, guest service quality, and hygiene compliance
Collaborate with chefs to plan and execute themed food and beverage offerings
Oversee budgets, cost controls, and health, safety, and hygiene across camp
Stock & Procurement
Source wines to present the finest selection, manage inventory and logistics
Track wine cellar inventory and ensure optimal storage and rotation
Liaise with the Maun procurement team on consolidated ordering and stock movement
Training & Performance
Develop clear service SOPs and ensure practical on-site training
Identify and grow promising local talent in wine, bar service, and hosting
Conduct regular performance reviews with hosting and waitstaff teams
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Minimum 5 years’ experience in high-end hospitality (including bush or remote lodge environments)
Formal training in Food & Beverage or Sommelier certification (WSCT Level 2+ or equivalent ideal)
Excellent palate and knowledge of global wines, particularly South African labels
Strong people management and training capabilities
Confident front-of-house presence; able to host high-profile guests
Output/results-focused and passion-driven approach to F&B and staff
Must be comfortable working and travelling across a remote concession
Valid drivers licence and sober habits essential
ADVANTAGEOUS:
Cocktail mixology and spirits knowledge
Fine dining experience (local and international)
Public speaking and guest presentations skill
Previous experience in Botswana or similar remote safari destinations
PACKAGE & BENEFITS:
Competitive (commensurate with experience)
Private management accommodation within the Jao Reserve
Opportunity to contribute creativity to one of Botswana’s leading luxury safari brands

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