At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the host team, manage guest experiences, and ensure smooth service.
- Company: The Blues Kitchen, a vibrant bar, restaurant, and music venue.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, 50% off food, career growth opportunities, and fun events.
- Why this job: Join a lively team and kickstart your career in hospitality management.
- Qualifications: Experience in hosting or guest-facing roles and strong communication skills.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with recognition for standout work and global industry trips.
The predicted salary is between 13 - 16 Β£ per hour.
We're searching for a Host Manager to join the team at The Blues Kitchen. This is a key role at our largest venue, leading the guest experience from the moment people arrive. You'll set the tone on the door, manage the flow of the room, and make sure every service runs smoothly. With a warm presence and a confident, considered approach, you'll oversee the host team and lead them through busy shifts with calm and clarity. You'll work closely with restaurant and bar management to coordinate bookings, manage wait times and ensure guests feel looked after from start to finish.
We're looking for someone who communicates clearly, enjoys being at the centre of the action and takes pride in running an organised, welcoming front of house. In return, we offer real development and progression. This role has historically been a strong pathway into restaurant management positions within the group, with training and support to help you get there.
The role:
- Lead the host team during service, setting standards and supporting the team on busy shifts
- Manage the door and reservations, balancing walk-ins, bookings and guest expectations
- Be the first point of contact for guests, delivering a warm, confident and consistent welcome
- Work closely with managers to manage flow, capacity and service priorities
- Handle guest queries and challenges calmly and professionally
- Train and develop hosts, helping build a strong, reliable team
What we're looking for:
- Experience in hosting, reservations or guest-facing roles in a hospitality environment
- Confidence leading a team during service
- Strong communication skills and a calm, measured approach
- Highly organised, with strong attention to detail
- An interest in developing into restaurant or wider hospitality management roles
What to expect:
- Competitive Pay: Β£***** per hour plus tronc (total package usually in the range of Β£***** per hour). Hourly wages paid every two weeks on a Friday and tronc paid on the last Friday of the month.
- The Blues Kitchen is a lively bar, restaurant and music venue meaning our teams work a variety of daytime and evening shifts over the course of the week.
- No uniforms here - bring your best self.
Why you'll love working with us:
- Food Social Perks: Enjoy 50% off across our venues, our annual celebrations and free access to our events and festivals.
- Career Growth: At The Columbo Academy, your ambition is our inspiration. We're here to guide you on a clear path to personal and professional greatness.
- Hero of the Month: Get recognized for your standout work and enjoy a paid weekend off.
- Bar Restaurant Incentives: Top seller in drinks revenue pockets a Β£50 voucher.
- Employee Referrals: Bring in talent β earn Β£1,000 for Chef/Manager referrals or Β£250 for hourly roles.
- Global Industry Trips: For our top performers and wine experts β your next adventure awaits.
- Pension via Nest: Lock in your future with our pension plan.
Host Manager in England employer: The Columbo Group
Contact Detail:
The Columbo Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Host Manager in England
β¨Tip Number 1
Get to know the venue! Before your interview, pop by The Blues Kitchen and soak up the atmosphere. This will help you understand the vibe and show your genuine interest in the role.
β¨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! As a Host Manager, you'll need to lead a team and interact with guests. Try role-playing scenarios with friends to boost your confidence and clarity.
β¨Tip Number 3
Show off your organisational skills! Bring examples of how you've managed busy shifts or handled guest queries in the past. This will demonstrate your ability to keep things running smoothly.
β¨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! Itβs the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team at The Blues Kitchen!
We think you need these skills to ace Host Manager in England
Some tips for your application π«‘
Show Your Personality: When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so donβt be afraid to inject a bit of warmth and confidence into your words. Remember, this role is all about creating a welcoming atmosphere!
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have in hosting or guest-facing roles. Weβre looking for someone who can manage the flow of the room, so share specific examples of how you've done this in the past. Itβll help us see how you fit into our team!
Be Clear and Concise: We appreciate clear communication, so keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use bullet points if it helps, and make sure to address all the key skills weβre looking for. This will show us that you can communicate effectively, just like you would with our guests!
Apply Through Our Website: Donβt forget to apply through our website! Itβs the best way for us to receive your application and ensures youβre considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at The Blues Kitchen!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Columbo Group
β¨Know the Venue Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure youβre familiar with The Blues Kitchen. Check out their menu, vibe, and any recent events. This shows genuine interest and helps you answer questions about how youβd enhance the guest experience.
β¨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Host Manager, you'll be leading a team. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed a team or handled a busy shift. Highlight your calmness under pressure and how you motivate others.
β¨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly. During the interview, demonstrate your strong communication skills by answering questions directly and engaging with the interviewer. Remember, they want to see how youβll interact with guests!
β¨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about handling guest queries or managing reservations. Think of specific scenarios where youβve dealt with challenges in a hospitality setting. This will show your problem-solving skills and ability to maintain a welcoming atmosphere.