VACANCY: FRONT OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR / RECEPTIONIST Mountain Lakes Resort & Spa is looking for a professional, friendly and customer-focused Front Office Administrator/Receptionist to join our team.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Harare
- Category: Hospitality
- Closing Date: 2026-09-02
Key Responsibilities
- Welcome and assist guests upon arrival.
- Handle guest check-ins and check-outs efficiently.
- Manage reservations and guest enquiries.
- Answer telephone calls, emails and other guest communications.
- Process guest payments and maintain accurate records.
- Handle guest requests and complaints professionally.
- Coordinate with Housekeeping and other departments regarding room status.
- Provide guests with information about resort facilities and services.
- Maintain a professional and welcoming Front Office environment.
- Assist with other operational duties as required.
Requirements
- Diploma or certificate in Hospitality, Tourism, Front Office Operations or a related field.
- Previous experience in a hotel, lodge or resort environment will be an advantage.
- Excellent communication and customer service skills.
- Professional appearance and positive attitude.
- Computer literacy.
- Ability to work shifts, weekends and public holidays.
- Valid driver’s licence is essential.
- Mature, reliable and able to work independently.
How to Apply
Apply by email: [email protected]
About the Company
Mountain Lakes Resort & Spa is a hospitality destination located in Juliasdale, a scenic highland town in Zimbabwe’s Eastern Highlands. It offers cozy, self-contained villas, an indoor pool, and a full-service spa focused on relaxation and wellness. The resort serves locally sourced meals, highlighting regional produce and Zimbabwean culinary traditions. As a verified operational business in Zimbabwe, it caters to both domestic and international guests seeking a tranquil getaway amid the country’s natural beauty.
Relax at Mountain Lakes Resort & Spa in Juliasdale, Zimbabwe
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications are typically required for a Front Office Administrator/Receptionist role in Zimbabwe’s hospitality sector?
A minimum of 'O' Level with strong English and Mathematics is standard; many employers prefer candidates with a diploma in Hospitality, Tourism, or Business Administration from institutions like ZIMSEC-accredited colleges or Harare Polytechnic. Certifications such as the ZIMSEC Hospitality Certificate or short courses in front office operations (e.g., from the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority) add value, especially for resorts targeting international guests.
What does a typical day look like for a Front Office Administrator/Receptionist at a resort like Mountain Lakes Resort & Spa?
Daily duties include managing guest check-ins/check-outs, handling phone and email inquiries, coordinating room assignments with housekeeping, and maintaining accurate front desk records using property management systems like Opera or locally adapted software. You’ll also assist with basic concierge requests, process payments in ZWL and foreign currency, and liaise with security and maintenance teams—especially important in Zimbabwe where power and connectivity disruptions may require manual backup procedures.
How does Zimbabwean workplace culture influence expectations for reception staff in hospitality?
Respect for hierarchy and formal address (e.g., using titles like 'Mr./Ms.' unless told otherwise) is expected, and punctuality is highly valued—even more so given transport challenges in cities like Harare or Mutare. Teamwork and adaptability are crucial, as staff often wear multiple hats due to lean operational structures common in Zimbabwean resorts, and showing initiative without waiting for instruction is widely appreciated.
What realistic career progression paths exist for a Front Office Administrator in Zimbabwe’s hospitality industry?
With 2–3 years’ experience and demonstrated reliability, you can progress to Senior Receptionist or Front Office Supervisor, especially if you gain internal training or complete ZTA-endorsed leadership modules. Further growth into roles like Front Office Manager or Guest Services Manager is possible, particularly with exposure to international brands or resorts that partner with regional hotel groups like African Sun or Rainbow Tourism Group.
What benefits are commonly offered to reception staff in Zimbabwean resorts, and how do they compare to national standards?
Most established resorts offer at least 22 days of annual leave, statutory sick leave, and participation in the National Social Security Authority (NSSA) pension scheme. Medical aid is increasingly common but often limited to basic cover through providers like NSSA Health or private schemes such as Fidelity Life—though comprehensive plans depend on employer size and profitability, not legal mandate.
How should I apply for this role, and what do Zimbabwean hospitality employers specifically look for in candidates?
Submit a concise CV and cover letter via email or in person, highlighting customer service experience, multilingual ability (especially Shona, Ndebele, and English), and familiarity with local payment systems like EcoCash or RTGS. Employers prioritise professionalism, composure under pressure, and evidence of reliability—such as consistent employment history or references from previous Zimbabwean hospitality employers—over flashy credentials.