At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to manage reservations and events, ensuring exceptional guest experiences.
- Company: Join Cafe Murano, a renowned Italian restaurant known for its warm atmosphere and seasonal cuisine.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous staff discounts, meals on duty, and up to 28 days holiday.
- Why this job: Be part of a vibrant team culture with opportunities for growth and impact in hospitality.
- Qualifications: 1+ year in reservations/events management; strong leadership and communication skills required.
- Other info: This is a maternity cover role with potential for extension based on business needs.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are currently recruiting for a talented and experienced Reservations and Events Manager (Maternity Cover) to lead our central reservations team at Cafe Murano, Covent Garden. Under the direction of Angela Hartnett, Cafe Murano is known for its seasonal and elegant Italian food, welcoming service, and warm, relaxed atmosphere. This is a vital, fixed-term position supporting the continuation of our high standards in guest experience and service during a team member’s maternity leave.
About the Role
As Reservations and Events Manager, you will oversee the day-to-day operations of the reservations and events function, supervising a small team of Coordinators and ensuring a smooth and efficient service. You will report directly to the Head of Sales & Marketing, contributing to the success of private dining, group bookings, and broader sales initiatives. This is a full-time maternity cover contract offering approximately 40+ hours per week, with the potential for extension depending on business needs.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead, train, and support a team of Reservations & Events Coordinators
- Oversee all incoming reservations, private dining, and event enquiries across multiple sites
- Ensure an exceptional guest journey from enquiry to confirmation
- Collaborate with the Head of Sales & Marketing on campaigns and performance targets
- Maintain and manage booking systems, reports, and customer databases
- Build strong relationships with the operations and kitchen teams
- Monitor and optimise availability across services
What We’re Looking For:
- A confident and approachable leader with strong communication skills
- At least 1 year in a reservations or events management role
- Experience supervising or mentoring a small team
- Proficiency in online booking systems (e.g., SevenRooms, OpenTable, ResDiary)
- High attention to detail and strong organisational abilities
- Professional and calm under pressure with a solutions-driven approach
- A genuine passion for hospitality and delivering exceptional guest service
Why Join Us?
- Be part of a respected and growing hospitality group
- Generous staff discounts across our restaurants and deli shop
- Access to 24/7 online GP and Employee Assistance Programme
- Competitive pay and benefits
- Meals on duty
- Up to 28 days holiday (pro-rata), increasing with length of service
- Fun and inclusive team culture, with regular training, supplier trips, team events, and more
- £1,000 refer-a-friend incentive
Beyond experience, we’re looking for a Reservations and Events Manager with heart and personality—someone who truly believes in the importance of creating outstanding guest experiences and who will be a positive force within our team. If you’re looking for a vibrant, fast-paced role where you can make an impact and further grow your skills, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now to join Cafe Murano as our Maternity Cover Reservations and Events Manager.
Reservation and Events Manager employer: Cafe Murano
Contact Detail:
Cafe Murano Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Reservation and Events Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific booking systems mentioned in the job description, like SevenRooms and OpenTable. Having hands-on experience or even a basic understanding of these platforms can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills by preparing examples of how you've successfully managed or mentored a team in the past. Be ready to discuss your approach to training and supporting team members during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Research Cafe Murano's unique offerings and their approach to guest service. Being able to speak knowledgeably about their menu and atmosphere will demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and the company.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss how you handle high-pressure situations, especially in a hospitality setting. Think of specific instances where you maintained professionalism and delivered exceptional service despite challenges.
We think you need these skills to ace Reservation and Events Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in reservations and events management. Emphasise any leadership roles you've held, particularly those involving team supervision or training.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for hospitality and your approach to guest service. Mention specific examples of how you've created exceptional guest experiences in previous roles.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your proficiency with online booking systems like SevenRooms or OpenTable. Also, mention your organisational skills and ability to work under pressure, as these are key for the role.
Showcase Team Leadership: Discuss your experience in leading or mentoring teams. Provide examples of how you've supported team members and contributed to a positive team culture, which is essential for this position.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cafe Murano
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Reservations and Events Manager, you'll be leading a team. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully managed or mentored a team in the past.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Hospitality
This role requires a genuine passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences. Share stories that highlight your commitment to hospitality and how you've gone above and beyond for guests in previous roles.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Booking Systems
Proficiency in online booking systems is crucial. Make sure you understand the systems mentioned in the job description, like SevenRooms or OpenTable, and be ready to discuss your experience with similar platforms.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities under pressure. Think of scenarios where you've had to manage multiple reservations or resolve guest complaints, and be ready to explain your approach and outcomes.