Head Hostess

A Head Hostess, also known as a Head Host or Hostess Supervisor, is a senior position in the hospitality industry, often found in upscale restaurants, hotels, and fine dining establishments. The Head Hostess is responsible for managing the host/hostess team, coordinating the front-of-house operations, and ensuring a welcoming and efficient experience for guests. Here is a typical job description for a Head Hostess:

Job Title: Head Hostess

Job Summary: As the Head Hostess, you will lead the front-of-house team, manage the guest seating process, and oversee the overall flow of the restaurant or establishment. Your primary responsibilities include coordinating reservations, managing guest arrivals, supervising the host/hostess team, and ensuring a seamless and pleasant dining experience for our patrons.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Team Leadership: Supervise, train, and schedule host and hostess staff, ensuring they adhere to established service standards and guidelines.
2. Guest Reservations: Manage guest reservations, communicate reservation details to the service and kitchen teams, and accommodate special requests when possible.
3. Seating Arrangements: Oversee the seating process, ensuring efficient use of tables and timely seating of guests during peak dining hours.
4. Guest Interaction: Interact with guests, addressing any special requests or concerns and ensuring a high level of customer satisfaction.
5. Communication: Maintain clear and effective communication between the front-of-house and kitchen teams, ensuring the efficient flow of orders and service.
6. Waitlist Management: Maintain a waitlist for guests during peak times, keeping guests informed of wait times and managing seating accordingly.
7. Resolving Issues: Handle guest complaints and issues related to seating, reservations, or wait times, seeking prompt and satisfactory resolutions.
8. Quality Control: Ensure that the host/hostess team maintains cleanliness and organization at the host stand and in the waiting area.
9. Cooperation with Other Departments: Collaborate with kitchen, waitstaff, and management to optimize guest service and dining experiences.
10. Guest Recognition: Implement guest recognition programs, such as loyalty programs or special occasion celebrations, to enhance the guest experience.
11. Scheduling: Create and manage host/hostess work schedules, taking into account reservation volumes and staff availability.

Qualifications:

• Previous experience as a host/hostess in a similar setting, with a strong understanding of front-of-house operations.
• Leadership and supervisory skills.
• Exceptional customer service and communication skills.
• Ability to remain calm and organized in a high-pressure environment.
• Familiarity with reservation systems and seating management software is a plus.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Move and organize guest seating efficiently.
• Lift and carry menus, seating charts, or other materials as needed.