Lead Host

The Lead Host’s main functions are to assist in overseeing the overall Host operation of the restaurant as the entire host team are the brand ambassadors of the company and the first face the guests see as they walk into 1000 North. The Lead Host’s responsibilities include but are not limited to ensuring each and every guests’ feel welcome, are seated and presented with menus in a professional and timely manner, inventory management, development and implementation of the training program, and assisting with guest and employee conflict resolution.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The primary duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:

• Perform all operational functions as a Host
  • Welcome each guest and open the door as they enter the restaurant
  • Take reservations or place guests on a waiting list
  • Provide guests with menus and show them to their seat
  • Answer and manage the incoming calls and guest inquiries
  • Observe tables and keep track of clean, dirty, and occupied tables
  • Clean, organize and stock menus at the host stand
  • Maintain organization and cleanliness of the closet, entrance and waiting area
  • Obtain guest information and quote wait times to guests accurately when tables are not ready
  • Fills to-go orders
  • Runs OpenTable during business hours
  • Implements and maintains all Notes systems within OpenTable
  • Possess knowledge of the restaurant operations (hours, location, general information, table numbers)
  • Possess detailed knowledge of the membership program and members, member’s spouses, family members
  • Communicate with servers to ensure smooth transition of tables and even distribution of guests throughout the restaurant
  • Interact with guests when they come in and as they leave the restaurant to ensure a positive dining experience
• Leads the team during service
• Delegates daily duties to the rest of the host team and is in constant communication with the MOD throughout the shift
• Informs team of VIPs, Owners, and Celebrities
• Oversees and manages Open Table
• Responsible for the Host Team Schedules, posting schedules in a timely manner, and ensuring fairness with shift distribution and time off approvals
• Monitor cuts, hours, overtime, tardiness, absenteeism, and shift breaks on a daily basis
• Responsible for the host training program (training schedules, orientation, exams, materials, testing logs)
• Implement updated and continuous training materials
• Complete Performance Evaluations and conduct evaluation meetings with a manager/employee
• Drive sales through exceptional and consistent service and genuine hospitality
• Ensure the Host department are staffed and conduct initial interviews
• Provide support and develop the host team such as improving one’s job knowledge, providing clear expectations and overall performance
• Observe and identify performance issues and correct in a timely fashion; provide feedback immediately. Notify the Service Manager as needed and assist with performance improvement strategies
• Promote teamwork and interact with employees in a fair and professional manner
• Follow-up with employees to ensure tasks are completed
• Conduct menu inventory
• Maintain and manage the Lost and Found
• Conduct and submit performance evaluations; communicate with direct supervisor and Human Resources
• Document all issues and present them to the Manager on Duty/Direct Supervisor/Human Resources
• Collaborate with the MOD/Direct Supervisor for all Verbal and Written Warnings
• Create and implement Host Team testing on a regular basis to maintain and improve overall knowledge of 1000 North
• Maintenance and cleanliness of the podium and restrooms
• Maintain communication regarding Members and report concerns to the Concierge/Membership department
• Update, maintain and print menus; proof-read, updated, and error-free
• Constantly strive to provide guest satisfaction through training of staff, development of new ideas, concepts, systems and procedures, customer service techniques
• Maintain knowledge and practice the company’s mission and vision, policies and procedures, and employee handbook
• Is a role model for the entire host team in all aspects including uniform and grooming standards
• Maintains guest supplies including readers, pashminas and lost and found items
• Conduct daily-pre-shift meetings to be used to motivate and educate the team; create pre-shift sheet for days off
• Lead the bi-weekly Host meetings
• Communicate all host related, issues, concerns and innovations with the Service Manager
• Create and maintain a positive, safe and healthy work environment
• Be a role model and lead by example in terms of professionalism, positive attitude, taking initiative, work ethic, work performance, etc.
• Working knowledge of the menu; food and beverages
• Anticipate guest’s needs and offer assistance before the guest’s request for it
• Maintain a positive, pleasant, attitude in the workplace, keeping confidentiality at the forefront regarding members, as well as reminding the team as needed
• Provide exception guest service through clear communication, highest level of service and professionalism
• Other duties as assigned

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Experience/Training: Must possess working knowledge of food and beverage menu and specifications, prior restaurant experience; preferably as a Host/Maitre’d
• Language Ability: Excellent verbal and written communication skills and reading skills; people and hospitality orientation
• Math Ability: Basic mathematical skills
• Technological Skills: Proficient in POS, Microsoft Office, Outlook
• Availability: Work various shirts, weekends, events, and holidays
• Work Environment: Walk, bend, climb, stand, lift, carry, stoop, and wipe; may remain stationary for long periods of time; be able to lift up to 50 lbs, frequent washing of the hands

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT:

Decisions and criteria governing the employment relationship with all employees at 1000 North are made in a non- disability, sexual orientation, gender expression, veteran status, age, FMLA status, or any other factor determined to be unlawful by federal, state or local statutes.