Jurie Venter, Flitwick Ranch

When did you know you wanted to be a hotelier and in particular, a General Manager? 

Never aimed to be a hotelier/GM.

 

Where have you served thus far as GM?  

Only Flitwick Ranch.

 

Have you had any mentor(s) along the way & how important were they to your development?

Yes. People management skills.

 

Have you ever had to open a hotel or lodge and would you say that requires a unique skill set? If not, would you be interested in doing so or not? 

We’ve opened Flitwick Ranch. I believe people skills are vital.

 

From the first day you served as a GM, until today, you must have learnt so much. If you could share any one piece of sage guidance, to new GM’s, what would it be? 

Treat people the way you would like to be treated. Always try to do everything in your power to make their stay as pleasant as possible.

 

I imagine that being the GM of a property, in a small town, would come with different dynamics to being the GM of a property, in a big city. The same would go for managing a beach property on an island or a bush lodge in a remote corner of the world. Can you share how one adapts to managing in different locations (environments)?

Being remote, you learn to plan ahead for everything you need for at least a week. 

 

Being the general manager of a hotel, during the Coronavirus Pandemic, must have been very challenging. What was the key to survival and did you gain or learn anything from the adverse situation? 

Our key is always God. He provides and make everything possible.

We’ve learnt to appreciate people more.

 

Your favourite thing about serving, at your current post? 

Seeing happy guests. When they feel they got more than they bargained for.

 

How important is it for general managers, such as yourself, to visit other properties?

Very important. It’s always good to see how other properties run their business and learn from them. 

 

How is your establishment contributing to the greater good & making the world a better place?

A place where people can get rest and peace from the huzz and buzz of the cities. Time to re-focus.

 

Interesting Insights about the General Manager:

 

What is your ideal or favourite vacation destination?

France.

 

What is your favourite dish?

Pasta.

 

What favourite hidden gem, near your establishment, should we visit?

Lake Naverone Self Catering Cottages (https://lakenaverone.co.za/)

Never been but believe it’s beautiful.

 

Best question you were never asked or a fun fact about yourself?

I enjoy a challenge.