At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the reception team and ensure exceptional guest experiences at our stunning hotel.
- Company: Join Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve, a unique wild animal park and luxury accommodation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28 days annual leave, discounts, and comprehensive training opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic role with excellent career growth and a supportive team culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in hospitality while working in a beautiful environment.
- Qualifications: Management experience in hospitality and strong customer service skills required.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve is recruiting a Reception Manager to manage guest check‑in and check‑out at our Pinewood, Bear Lodge, Library, Mansion and Guest Services reception areas. The role involves leading the reception team, ensuring high service standards, overseeing daily operations, managing staffing and training, resolving guest queries, and working with other departments to deliver an exceptional guest experience.
Responsibilities
- Lead, recruit, train and develop the front‑facing reception team.
- Maintain consistent, high‑standard service across all reception areas.
- Oversee daily operations, manage staffing schedules and handle operational delivery.
- Resolve guest concerns and provide timely, professional solutions.
- Collaborate with other departments to support overall guest satisfaction.
Qualifications
- Minimum two years of management experience in a customer‑focused hospitality environment.
- Experience leading a team of at least 15 front‑office staff.
- Strong telephone and in‑person customer service skills.
- Excellent communication, attention to detail and ability to manage change positively.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office and other IT systems.
- Knowledge of GDPR, Health & Safety and Fire Safety regulations.
- Full UK driving licence and right to work in the UK.
Contract Details
Permanent full‑time position, 40 hours per week, five days per week as per rota. Based at Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve near Folkestone, reporting directly to the Front of House Manager.
Location
Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve is a world‑renowned wild animal park set within 600 acres of Kentish savannah. The reserve hosts rare and endangered species and offers luxury accommodation, animal safaris, encounters and fine dining.
Benefits
- 28 days annual leave (incl. bank holidays) pro‑rated to start date and working hours.
- Comprehensive training and development opportunities.
- Enhanced sickness, maternity and paternity policies.
- Unlimited free entry for you and a companion to both parks, plus discounts for friends and family.
- Exceptional discounts on food, retail and accommodation.
- Retail discounts and access to a 24‑hour counselling line through the Healthy Extras Scheme.
- Company pension.
- Additional length‑of‑service rewards and benefits.
All applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
Reception Manager in Hythe employer: Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve & Howletts Wild Animal Park
Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture where team members are valued and encouraged to grow. With comprehensive training opportunities, generous benefits including unlimited park access, and a commitment to high service standards in a unique wildlife setting, employees can thrive both personally and professionally while contributing to memorable guest experiences.
Contact Details:
Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve & Howletts Wild Animal Park Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Reception 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!
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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!
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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 Reception 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!
