Host / Hostess

A little about us:

Nestled in the heart of Chelsea, 11 Cadogan Gardens and The Chelsea Townhouse are two unique five-star boutique hotels with a rich history and unmistakable sense of place. From the Victorian townhouses and eclectic character of 11 Cadogan Gardens to the elegant residential charm of The Chelsea Townhouse, both properties combine heritage with modern luxury and exceptional hospitality.

Part of Iconic Hotels & Resorts and Relais & Châteaux, we are proud to offer a genuinely personal guest experience while being deeply connected to the local Chelsea community.

What we will offer you:

Iconic Hotels & Resorts offer the following benefits to employees:

• Monthly service charge
• 29 days of annual leave, including bank holidays
• Regular team gatherings and appreciation events
• Complimentary team meals
• Exclusive team rates and friends & family rates at our Iconic Luxury Hotels
• Exclusive team rates with Relais & Châteaux properties worldwide
• Exclusive team rates with London & Regional properties worldwide
• Discounts on spa treatments and products
• Discounts on all food & beverage offerings, including the Cookery School at Chewton Glen
• Special gifts based on length of service
• Team referral programme
• Health cash plan
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme
• ...and so much more.

What will you be doing?

As a Host/Hostess, you will play a key role in creating memorable dining experiences by delivering a warm welcome, managing reservations efficiently, and ensuring exceptional guest service throughout every interaction. You will be the first and last point of contact for our guests, setting the tone for a seamless and personalised experience.

• To confidently manage reservations and guest enquiries using the Opera system.
• To warmly welcome and escort guests, ensuring a professional and personalised arrival experience at all times.
• To manage and optimise lunch and dinner covers through effective booking management, table allocations, and timing control, demonstrating flexibility and ownership of guest requests.
• To maintain the restaurant reception area to the highest standards of presentation, cleanliness, and organisation.
• To ensure all guest bills are handled accurately, including room charges, payment methods, and authorised discounts.
• To maintain restaurant menus to a high standard, ensuring all dishes, pricing, and information are accurate and up to date.
• To support the smooth flow of service between the lounge, bar, restaurant, and room service areas, working closely with the Food & Beverage Manager and wider Food & Beverage team.
• To build strong relationships with guests by recognising returning visitors, using guest names where possible, and delivering discreet and attentive service.
• To confidently promote the hotel's dining experiences, events, and wider hotel services, demonstrating passion and product knowledge at every opportunity.
• To report all guest feedback, comments, complaints, and operational issues promptly to the Food & Beverage Manager or designated supervisor in charge.
• To attend daily briefings and remain fully informed of VIP arrivals, special events, promotions, and operational updates.
• To ensure all billing, payment handling, and signing procedures are completed in line with company standards and operating procedures.
• To maintain a thorough understanding of the hotel's fire safety procedures, Health & Safety regulations, and emergency processes.
• To follow all company policies, including data protection, confidentiality, and privacy requirements at all times.
• To work collaboratively across all departments, supporting colleagues where required and contributing to a positive team culture.

What are we looking for?

• Previous experience in a host, hostess, reception, or guest-facing hospitality role is preferred.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• A warm, friendly, and professional approach to guest service.
• Confidence managing reservations and handling guest enquiries.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to multi-task in a busy environment.
• A positive attitude and willingness to support colleagues across the operation.
• High attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining luxury hospitality standards.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays as required.

If you find the pace and buzz of service exciting and enjoy creating unforgettable guest experiences, we'd love to hear from you!