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Marilize Heimstädt
Windhoek
Work Preference
Summary
Luxury hospitality professional with 15 years of experience in lodge operations, guest relations, business development, and team leadership. Proven success in driving revenue growth, building global partnerships, and delivering exceptional guest experiences through operational excellence and strategic marketing.
Overview
1
1
Certification
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Lodge Manager & Sales/Marketing Manager
Waldeck Namibia Luxury Lodge & Private Game Reserve
Windhoek
06.2025 - Current
- Lead the operations and commercial strategy of an exclusive-use luxury lodge, delivering exceptional 5-star guest experiences.
- Drive sales and business growth through global agent partnerships, strategic marketing, and brand development.
- Oversee lodge operations, including team leadership, reservations, pricing, and revenue optimization.
- Represent the lodge at international trade shows, including We Are Africa and PURE 2025, delivering product training and strengthening global trade relationships.
- Organize and host familiarization (FAM) trips, VIP guests, and media to increase brand awareness and generate new business.
- Coordinate bespoke guest itineraries, consistently achieving outstanding guest satisfaction.
Lodge Manager & Hospitality Trainer
Toshari Bed and Breakfast
Outjo
06.2023 - 05.2025
- Managed all lodge operations, ensuring exceptional guest experiences and maintaining high service standards.
- Led and developed multidisciplinary teams through training, coaching, and performance management.
- Oversaw guest relations, consistently improving guest satisfaction and loyalty.
- Managed administration, including HR, payroll, bookings, procurement, and financial controls.
- Implemented operational systems and procedures to improve efficiency and service quality.
Hospitality Training Manager & Travel Advisor
N/a'ankuse Ecotourism Collection
Windhoek
03.2021 - 04.2023
- Led multi-property operations, driving operational excellence, standardization, and exceptional guest experiences.
- Established the company's in-house travel agency, expanding services and enhancing guest experiences through tailored itineraries.
- Mentored lodge managers and developed training programs to improve leadership and service standards across all properties.
- Managed budgets, forecasting, HR, reservations, and operational planning to improve efficiency and profitability.
- Led weddings, corporate events, VIP functions, and new lodge openings.
- Standardized operational procedures, procurement, and brand standards across all properties.
Restaurant Manager
Utopia Guesthouse & Rooster & Co. Restaurant part of N/a'ankuse Ecotourism Collection
Windhoek Rural
03.2019 - 03.2021
- Established and managed a restaurant from the ground up, overseeing operations, systems, and financial performance.
- Led and developed teams, recruiting, training, and mentoring staff to deliver exceptional customer service.
- Managed budgets, inventory, and compliance, ensuring operational efficiency and profitability.
- Oversaw head office operations, supporting managers and driving organizational performance.
- Designed and costed menus to maximize quality, consistency, and profitability.
Lodge Manager
Kanaan N/a'ankuse Desert Retreat part of N/a'ankuse Ecotourism Collection
Lüderitz
07.2016 - 03.2019
- Established and managed a restaurant, overseeing operations, financial performance, and business growth.
- Led and developed high-performing teams, delivering exceptional customer service.
- Managed budgets, inventory, and compliance to maximize efficiency and profitability.
- Oversaw head office operations, supporting managers and driving organizational performance.
- Designed and costed profitable menus while maintaining quality and consistency.
Lodge Manager
Naankuse Lodge & Wildlife Sanctuary part of N/a'ankuse Ecotourism Collection
06.2015 - 07.2016
- Led 50 staff members in efficient operations of 100-bed lodge focused on conservation, enhancing service delivery and guest satisfaction.
- Oversaw lodge facilities, including maintenance, housekeeping, and guest services, ensuring comfort and enjoyment for guests while upholding quality standards.
- Cultivated relationships with guests, stakeholders, and local community, enhancing lodge reputation and supporting long-term success.
- Maintain a gross profit margin of 65% by effectively managing budgets, controlling expenses, and maximizing revenue streams.
- Develop and implement sustainability initiatives to support the lodge's conservation goals, including waste reduction, energy efficiency, and responsible sourcing.
Food & Beverage Manager/Assistant Manager
N/a'ankuse Lodge & Wildlife Sanctuary part of N/a'ankuse Ecotourism Collection
Windhoek
05.2013 - 06.2015
- Managed day-to-day operations of lodge as assistant manager, overseeing orders and stock control.
- Managing the kitchen: oversees the kitchen staff, ensuring that all food is prepared safely, to a high standard of quality, and in a timely manner.
- Menu planning: responsible for planning menus that cater to the needs and preferences of guests.
- Coordinated food and supply orders while maintaining optimal inventory levels.
- Managed budget to control costs while delivering high-quality food and beverages.
- Customer service: ensuring that guests have a positive experience, from the quality of the food to the service they receive.
- Achieved 65% gross profit margin across all operations.
Trainee Chef
Allée Bleue Wine Estate
Stellenbosch
08.2012 - 02.2013
- Created and tested new menu items to enhance dining experience.
- Maintained food quality and presentation standards.
- Preparing and plating cold dishes such as salads, appetizers, and desserts.
- Assisted in preparing meals for large groups, ensuring timely service. for large-scale events and picnics.
- Managed inventory and ordered supplies to ensure efficient operation of cold kitchen.
- Collaborated with chefs to coordinate menu offerings, improving team efficiency.
- Maintained a clean workspace to promote food safety and hygiene. and organized work environment.
- Adhering to food safety and sanitation standards.
- During my time as a Trainee Chef, I developed strong organizational and time management skills while working in a fast-paced environment.
Function Coordinator
Clouds Estate, Zorgvliet
Stellenbosch
01.2012 - 08.2012
- Managed the event budget and negotiated with vendors to obtain the best prices.
- Coordinated with vendors and suppliers to secure necessary resources for successful event execution.
- Coordinated onsite logistics, including the setup and teardown of equipment.
- Facilitated communication among attendees, vendors, and stakeholders to ensure seamless event experience.
- Resolved onsite issues promptly to maintain event flow and attendee satisfaction.
Hospitality Trainee
DISH FOOD AND SOCIAL
Cape Town
09.2011 - 12.2011
- In the kitchen, I worked closely with the chefs to prepare and plate dishes for events.
- Studied fundamental cooking methods while assisting chefs in food preparation. while supporting chefs with food preparation and plating for events.
- Performed various office and kitchen tasks at events company.
- Assisted with administrative tasks, including managing client files and scheduling appointments, ensuring smooth office operations.
- Throughout my traineeship, I demonstrated a strong work ethic, a willingness to learn, and a positive attitude.
Waiter and Assistant to Event Coordinator
Nobble Hill
Stellenbosch
02.2011 - 09.2011
- Delivered exceptional service to guests, guiding them through wine list and menu selections to enhance their dining experience.
- Ensured accurate and timely order taking while recommending food and wine pairings to elevate guest satisfaction.
- I greeted guests upon arrival, escorted them to their table, and provided them with menus and wine lists.
- Presented and served food and drinks to guests, ensuring all dishes met high preparation standards for quality.
Education
Food Preparation/Professional Cooking/Kitchen Assistant -
The Culinary Academy
Stellenbosch, Cape Town01-2013
Diploma in Hospitality - Hospitality Administration/Management
The Culinary Academy
Stellenbosch, South Africa12-2011
Skills
- Marketing Strategy
- Revenue Management
- High-End Clientele
- Culinary Oversight
- Event coordination
- Budget Management
- Operational efficiency
- Facility Management
- Team leadership
- Staff training
- Time management
- Communication skills
Languages
Afrikaans
Native
Native
English
Advanced (C1)
C1
German
Beginner
A1
Certification
- Diploma in Hospitality and Cheffing
- Code B Driver's License
Timeline
Lodge Manager & Sales/Marketing Manager
Waldeck Namibia Luxury Lodge & Private Game Reserve
06.2025 - Current
Lodge Manager & Hospitality Trainer
Toshari Bed and Breakfast
06.2023 - 05.2025
Hospitality Training Manager & Travel Advisor
N/a'ankuse Ecotourism Collection
03.2021 - 04.2023
Restaurant Manager
Utopia Guesthouse & Rooster & Co. Restaurant part of N/a'ankuse Ecotourism Collection
03.2019 - 03.2021
Lodge Manager
Kanaan N/a'ankuse Desert Retreat part of N/a'ankuse Ecotourism Collection
07.2016 - 03.2019
Lodge Manager
Naankuse Lodge & Wildlife Sanctuary part of N/a'ankuse Ecotourism Collection
06.2015 - 07.2016
Food & Beverage Manager/Assistant Manager
N/a'ankuse Lodge & Wildlife Sanctuary part of N/a'ankuse Ecotourism Collection
05.2013 - 06.2015
Trainee Chef
Allée Bleue Wine Estate
08.2012 - 02.2013
Function Coordinator
Clouds Estate, Zorgvliet
01.2012 - 08.2012
Hospitality Trainee
DISH FOOD AND SOCIAL
09.2011 - 12.2011
Waiter and Assistant to Event Coordinator
Nobble Hill
02.2011 - 09.2011
Food Preparation/Professional Cooking/Kitchen Assistant -
The Culinary Academy
Diploma in Hospitality - Hospitality Administration/Management
The Culinary Academy