At a Glance
- Tasks: Be the welcoming face of The Wild Rabbit, ensuring every guest feels special and cared for.
- Company: Join a luxury dining and hospitality brand known for its elegance and exceptional service.
- Benefits: Enjoy discounts on dining, wellness, and products, plus mental health support and enhanced holiday pay.
- Other info: Opportunities for growth within a brand that values craftsmanship and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make memorable connections while working in a stunning Cotswolds setting with a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Experience in luxury hospitality preferred; strong communication and multitasking skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 12.89 - 12.89 £ per hour.
Daylesford Stays - a part of The Bamford Collection. We provide experiences that embrace luxury escapism: understated elegance, indulgence and nurture.
SALARY: £30,914.32 per annum OTE*
HOURS: Full Time, 40 hours per week, shifts vary.
ABOUT US
The Wild Rabbit in Kingham is a fine dining restaurant and boutique hotel in the heart of the Cotswolds. Recognised in the Top 50 Gastropubs, the Top 50 Boutique Hotels, and awarded 3 AA Rosettes, The Wild Rabbit blends culinary excellence with warm, authentic hospitality. Working in close connection with Daylesford Farm, our menus showcase the best seasonal, organic produce, crafted with skill and creativity. Under the leadership of Executive Chef Callum Graham, our team combines classical technique with modern inspiration, making The Wild Rabbit one of the most exciting fine dining destinations in the Cotswolds.
ABOUT THE ROLE
As a Receptionist, you will be the first point of contact for our guests, setting the tone for their entire experience at The Wild Rabbit. You will deliver a welcome defined by warmth, professionalism and genuine care, ensuring every arrival, stay and departure feels seamless and personal. This role combines presence and precision, blending attentive communication with confident organisation to support the smooth running of daily operations. You will work closely with all departments to coordinate guest needs, maintain accurate administration and uphold the standards of service and presentation that reflect the spirit of The Wild Rabbit and the wider Bamford Collection.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES
- Serve as the first and lasting point of contact for every guest, ensuring each interaction before, during, and after their stay feels personal, attentive, and effortless.
- Deliver a warm, polished and professional service across all channels; in person, by phone, and via email, reflecting the calm confidence and elegance of The Wild Rabbit.
- Handle all enquiries and special requests with composure, precision and genuine care, ensuring each response feels thoughtful and considered.
- Coordinate arrivals and departures with grace and attention to detail, ensuring every welcome and farewell feels sincere, seamless and memorable.
- Anticipate guest needs intuitively, going beyond expectation to create moments of quiet luxury and connection.
- Take ownership of each guest journey from first enquiry through to post-departure follow-up, maintaining a consistent sense of care and continuity between The Wild Rabbit, The Cottages and Daylesford Stays.
- Collaborate closely with Front of House, Guest Experience and Housekeeping teams to ensure every detail of the guest journey is aligned, timely and seamless.
- Build an in-depth understanding of the wider Daylesford Stays and Bamford Collection, confidently recommending experiences across the farm, spa, cottages and pubs to enrich every guest stay.
SKILLS & EXPERTISE
- Previous experience in a luxury hospitality or boutique hotel environment preferred.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills with immaculate attention to detail.
- Excellent time management and ability to multitask in a fast-paced setting.
- Confident use of Microsoft Office and booking systems (Opera, ResDiary or similar).
- Valid UK driving licence.
- Naturally warm and professional, with a genuine passion for delivering exceptional guest care.
- Calm, intuitive and adaptable under pressure, maintaining composure and clarity at all times.
- Collaborative and solution-focused, fostering a positive and supportive team environment.
- Organised, precise and motivated by upholding the highest standards of presentation and service.
- Curious and eager to learn, growing within a brand that values craftsmanship, care and continuous improvement.
PERKS & BENEFITS
- Discounts on products, treatments, and dining experiences from day one.
- Mental Health Support: 24-hour access to our Employee Assistance Programme.
- Volunteering Days: One paid day per year to volunteer with a charity of your choice.
- Private Medical: Subsidised private medical insurance through Bupa.
- Pension Scheme: Pay up to 9 percent of your salary into your pension each month with a 4.5 percent contribution from us.
- Enhanced Holiday Pay (up to 33 days per annum including Bank Holidays, Pro-Rata).
- Refer a Friend Scheme - Earn up to £750 when you refer a friend to work with us.
*The on target earning potential for this role is £30,914.32 per annum based on a 40-hour contract - comprising a base salary of £26,914.32, plus a qualified estimate of £4,000 in gratuities and service charge.
Receptionist, The Wild Rabbit in Witney employer: Bamford Collection
The Bell in Charlbury, part of The Bamford Collection, is an exceptional employer that prioritises sustainability and culinary excellence. With a focus on farm-to-fork principles, employees enjoy a collaborative work culture that fosters creativity and skill development, alongside opportunities for personal growth within a supportive kitchen team. Located in the picturesque Cotswolds, this role offers a unique chance to be part of a renowned establishment that values craftsmanship and guest experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Receptionist, The Wild Rabbit in Witney
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Bamford Collection. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Bamford Collection
Don't be shy about reaching out to Bamford Collection directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Receptionist, The Wild Rabbit in Witney
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Bamford Collection and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bamford Collection
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
