At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team to create unforgettable guest experiences in a luxury setting.
- Company: The House of KOKO, a vibrant members' club with a unique atmosphere.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, competitive pay, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team in a fast-paced, exciting environment.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of hospitality, shaping memorable moments for guests.
- Qualifications: 2+ years in luxury dining, strong communication skills, and a passion for service.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are offering both full & part-time contracts and flexibility, but the role does entail late nights and weekends, in line with the operational timings.
The House of KOKO, a luxury members' club spanning four floors, including a rooftop dining space, cocktail bars, a piano lounge, and a hidden speakeasy, is seeking an engaging and service-driven Head Waiter to lead by example, uphold service excellence, and create truly memorable guest experiences.
As a Head Waiter, you will be at the forefront of guest interactions, ensuring seamless service, a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and an intuitive approach to hospitality. You will play a key role in mentoring and guiding the front-of-house team, ensuring service consistency, and fostering a culture of engagement, accountability, and high performance.
With a genuine passion for hospitality, a proactive mindset, and an unwavering focus on detail, you will help shape the energy and rhythm of the club, making every visit to The House of KOKO a dynamic and unforgettable experience.
Role & Responsibilities
- Lead by example, ensuring seamless, engaging, and high-energy service execution across dining, bars, and events.
- Create a welcoming, vibrant, and personalised experience, fostering genuine connections with members and guests.
- Deliver intuitive service, anticipating guest needs and going above and beyond to exceed expectations.
- Maintain the atmosphere and energy on the floor, ensuring every service moment is immersive, polished, and on-brand.
- Work closely with the floor team, bar staff, and kitchen, fostering a collaborative and solutions-driven approach to service.
- Identify opportunities to enhance guest experience and drive revenue through upselling premium offerings and personal recommendations.
- Mentor, support, and develop junior waitstaff, instilling a strong service ethos and culture of accountability.
- Implement and uphold clear service standards, encouraging a mindset of excellence, engagement, and adaptability.
- Inspire the team by leading from the front, remaining calm under pressure, and fostering a positive and motivating work environment.
- Ensure all areas are set and ready for service and/or event execution, meeting brand standards and operational expectations.
- Support in coordinating reservations and table management, ensuring smooth guest flow and optimised service delivery.
- Monitor floor activity, guest interactions, and team performance, stepping in proactively to resolve challenges and maintain high energy.
- Work closely with management to implement process improvements, optimising service flow, efficiency, and guest satisfaction.
- Identify and act on commercial opportunities, such as enhancing service experiences, recommending special pairings, and ensuring guests explore the venue’s full offerings.
- Uphold health, safety, and licensing compliance in all areas of service, ensuring a safe and seamless environment.
- Maintain venue policies, member protocols, and service standards, championing consistency and attention to detail.
- Work alongside management to ensure quality control across all service touchpoints, from presentation to guest interaction.
About you
- Minimum 2+ years’ experience as a Head Waiter or Senior Waiter in a luxury hospitality, members’ club, or high-end dining environment.
- Dynamic and personable, with a warm and approachable demeanour that naturally connects with guests and colleagues.
- Ability to multi-task, remain calm under pressure, and maintain an impeccable level of professionalism.
- Strong product knowledge across food, wine, and cocktails, with a willingness to continuously learn and develop.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, able to engage effortlessly with guests, members, and the team.
- A team player, able to work collaboratively with colleagues across front of house, bar, and kitchen teams.
- Passionate about hospitality, eager to bring energy, warmth, and professionalism to every interaction.
- Availability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and high-profile events.
Please note we are only able to consider applicants with the right to work in the UK.
Head Waiter employer: Koko Camden
The House of KOKO is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and dynamic work environment where service excellence is at the heart of everything we do. With opportunities for personal and professional growth, our team members are encouraged to develop their skills in a luxury setting that values collaboration and creativity. Located in a prestigious area, we provide flexible working arrangements and a culture that celebrates passion for hospitality, making every day a rewarding experience for our staff.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Waiter
✨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 Koko Camden. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Koko Camden
Don't be shy about reaching out to Koko Camden 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 Head Waiter
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 Koko Camden 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 Koko Camden
✨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!