Host/Hostess

Job Description

Client Overview: 

The client is a prominent player in the cruise hospitality sector, specializing in providing exceptional onboard experiences to their guests. With a commitment to maintaining high service standards, they are seeking qualified and experienced professionals to fill key positions across various departments aboard their cruise ships.

Job Overview:

The Restaurant Host/Hostess onboard the cruise ship  is the first employee to interact with arriving guests
as they enter the restaurant. It is the job of the host to greet arriving guests, welcome them into the venue
and seat them. The guests receive their first impression of the service of the restaurant by their exchange
with the host. The host/hostess is a personal representation of the service and overall hospitality of the staff of
the restaurant. While guests are waiting to be seated, it is the job of the host to ensure that the guests
are made comfortable and kept informed of the status of their orders or wait times.

Key Responsibilities:

• Welcome guests to the venue
•  Provide accurate wait times and monitor waiting lists
•  Ensure pager systems and IT systems are all in working order
•  Manages venue reservations
•  Supports the information flow for dietary requirements to the service teams
• Escort guests to assigned tables – or dependant on the venue hands over the guest to the wait teams
• Provide menus and announce Waiter/Waitress name
• Relay a warm farewell to guests upon their departure
• Coordinate with wait staff about available seating options
• Maintains a clean reception area
• Cater to guests who require extra attention (e.g. children, elderly)
• Answer incoming calls and address customers queries
• Assist the restaurant team as required
• Responds to guest inquiries and requests in a timely, friendly, and efficient manner.
• Performs opening and closing duties, as required
• Assists others with side work including, but not limited to cleaning, stocking, folding silverware,etc.
• Helps fellow team members and other departments wherever necessary to maintain positive working relationships.
• Handles venue specific reservation cards (if applicable) and delivery to the guests cabin
• Liaises with Reception teams, Concierge, Butlers and other departments ensuring Suite and VIP guests receive the expected level of Guest Experience
• Communicates with the galley for any daily changes to food menus / availability
• Checks the daily program to ensure that all information is correct for venue dining times
• Supports the venue management with compliance to all Health and Safety protocols
• Administrational tasks as designated by F&B Leadership
• Assist in the daily operation of the restaurant. Mentor, manage, train and contribute to the development of staff within own area. Plan, organise and direct the work of a dedicated restaurant team to provide a courteous and efficient service.
• Ensure the appearance and condition of the restaurant and all items including tables, crockery and silverware is of the required standard. Confirm tables are set prior to and after service and that the standards of service provided comply with company requirements. Highlight any fixtures or fittings that need repair / renewal, liaising with the relevant department as necessary.
• Meet and greet passengers in a friendly and polite manner. Ensure all Special Diets are collected and delivered to passengers accurately, each meal service by subordinates in addition to coordinating and undertaking training of staff regarding dietary requirements.
• Ensure table turnover is maximised to increase revenue generating opportunities

Qualifications:

• Minimum six months experience as a Waiter/Assistant Waiter on a large cruise ship OR six months
  working experience as a Host/Hostess for a shore side restaurant is required.
• Basic to Intermediate skills using computerized reservation and/or table management systems is preferred.
•  Fluent in Arabic is a prerequisite
•  Intermediate to Advanced level English verbal and writing skills, including the proper use of English grammar.
•  High school diploma or foreign equivalency is required.