Hostess

About the Role

InterContinental Hotels & Resorts is seeking a Hostess for a full-time position in Umluj. The Hostess plays a crucial role in creating a welcoming first impression for guests by delivering professional, courteous, and personalized service. This position involves managing guest flow, handling reservations, and ensuring that every guest experience aligns with the luxury service standards of InterContinental Hotels & Resorts and IHG.

Key Responsibilities

• Warmly and professionally welcome and greet all guests upon arrival, using the restaurant name and guest names when possible.
• Ensure the restaurant entrance, hostess station, tables, and surrounding areas are clean, organized, and prepared before opening.
• Verify guest reservations and booking details using the reservation system or book.
• Manage restaurant reservations, including telephone bookings, walk-ins, special requests, and guest dining preferences.
• Escort guests to their assigned or preferred tables and present menus according to service standards.
• Coordinate guest seating arrangements and table allocation with the restaurant service team to ensure smooth operations.
• Provide accurate waiting times and manage guest flow during peak periods.
• Maintain detailed knowledge of the restaurant menu, beverages, daily specials, promotions, and hotel facilities.
• Respond promptly and courteously to guest inquiries, requests, and complaints, ensuring appropriate follow-up and service recovery.
• Recognize VIP guests, repeat guests, and special occasions, providing personalized service and attention to detail.
• Coordinate with the Restaurant Manager, service team, and Culinary team to communicate guest preferences, dietary requirements, and special requests.
• Maintain the cleanliness and proper presentation of menus, beverage lists, reservation materials, and the hostess station.
• Assist with food and beverage service as required to support smooth restaurant operations.
• Maintain accurate guest reservation records and update relevant guest information in the designated system.
• Promote restaurant offerings and special promotions where appropriate to enhance the guest experience and support revenue generation.
• Maintain professional grooming, personal hygiene, and uniform standards in accordance with IHG policies.
• Attend departmental briefings, meetings, and training sessions as required.
• Follow all hotel policies, procedures, brand standards, and applicable food safety and hygiene requirements.
• Demonstrate awareness of occupational health and safety procedures, fire and emergency protocols, and security requirements.
• Perform any other reasonable duties assigned by the Restaurant Manager or Food & Beverage Management.

Qualifications and Experience

• Previous experience in a similar position within a hotel or luxury restaurant is preferred.
• A Diploma or certificate in Hospitality Management or a related field is an advantage.

Required Skills

• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Good command of English; additional languages are an advantage.
• Knowledge of restaurant reservation systems and basic computer applications.
• Strong guest service, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and maintain a professional attitude.