At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Guest Services team to create unforgettable experiences for our guests.
- Company: Join the renowned Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve, a unique wildlife destination.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28 days annual leave, training opportunities, and discounts on food and accommodation.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team in a stunning location with amazing wildlife.
- Qualifications: 2+ years in hospitality management and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 32000 - 35000 £ per year.
This is a Permanent, Full-Time Position.
Are you wild about creating memorable experiences? Do you want to work in a place where you can hear the calls of the howler monkeys or the roar of a pride of lions?
Overview
As Assistant Guest Relations Manager, you will play a key leadership role in supporting the smooth and efficient running of the Guest Services team across all accommodation areas at Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve. This is a highly visible, hands-on position focused on delivering a seamless, high-quality guest experience and ensuring exceptional standards are consistently maintained. You will support the Guest Services Manager in leading, coaching, and developing a large customer-facing team, driving performance, and fostering a positive, service-led culture. You will also assist with rota planning, day-to-day operational delivery, and ensuring full departmental coverage. Working closely with colleagues across the Reserve, you will help resolve guest issues, share operational feedback, and identify opportunities to improve service delivery. You will also ensure team members are knowledgeable, confident, and equipped to deliver outstanding guest experiences, while deputising for both the Guest Services Manager and wider Front of House leadership when required.
Who Are We Looking For
We are seeking an experienced and motivated hospitality professional with a minimum of 2 years’ supervisory or managerial experience in a high-volume, customer-focused environment. You will have a proven track record of leading by example, recruiting, training, and developing a diverse customer-facing team of at least 15 colleagues. A confident and adaptable leader, you will be skilled in managing performance, driving continuous improvement, and identifying opportunities to enhance service delivery. You take pride in resolving guest issues effectively and professionally, with a strong focus on achieving timely and positive outcomes. You will bring exceptional communication skills, strong attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm and resilient under pressure. A flexible, 'can do' attitude and commitment to delivering outstanding guest experiences are essential, alongside a high standard of personal presentation. Strong IT skills (MS Office 365 and room booking systems such as Opera desirable) and a full UK driving licence are required.
Contract Details
This is a permanent full-time position, working 40 hours per week, five days out of seven as per the rota. The role is based at Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve near Folkestone and reports directly into the Front of House Manager. All applicants must have the right to work in the UK. A reliable mode of transport is recommended due to our remote location.
The location
Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve is a world-renowned wild animal park set within 600 acres of Kentish savannah. The Reserve is home to some of the world’s most rare and endangered animals and offers luxury short breaks accommodations, free roaming animal safaris, once-in-a-lifetime animal encounters and exquisite dining experiences.
Benefits
- 28 days annual leave inclusive of bank holidays, rising with length of service (pro-rata to start date and working hours)
- Comprehensive training and development opportunities, including workshops and e-learning.
- Enhanced Sickness, Maternity and Paternity Policies.
- Unlimited free entry for you and a person of your choice into both of our parks as well as friends and family tickets.
- Exceptional discounts on food, retail and accommodation at our parks.
- Numerous retail discounts and access to a 24-hour counselling line through our Healthy Extras Scheme.
- Company Pension.
- And many more length or service-related rewards and benefits.
Assistant Guest Relations Manager in Hythe employer: Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve & Howletts Wild Animal Park
At Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve, we pride ourselves on creating unforgettable experiences in a unique setting surrounded by wildlife. Our supportive work culture fosters personal and professional growth, offering comprehensive training and development opportunities alongside generous benefits such as enhanced leave policies and discounts for you and your loved ones. Join us in a role where your leadership will directly impact guest satisfaction while working in a breathtaking environment that truly stands out in the hospitality industry.
Contact Details:
Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve & Howletts Wild Animal Park Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Guest Relations Manager in Hythe
✨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 Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve & Howletts Wild Animal Park. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve & Howletts Wild Animal Park
Don't be shy about reaching out to Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve & Howletts Wild Animal Park 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 Assistant Guest Relations Manager in Hythe
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 Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve & Howletts Wild Animal Park 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 Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve & Howletts Wild Animal Park
✨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!
