Job Description

JOB TITLE:

Head Host / Guest Relations

DEPARTMENT:

Cafe Linea

REPORTS TO:

General Manager

WHO WE ARE

Set within a Grade IIlisted building in the heart of Chelsea, Cafe Linea boasts 72 indoor covers and a 60-seat all-year terrace with sweeping views of a picturesque green. Open from breakfast through dinner, Cafe Linea is designed to be a go-to destination - whether for a morning pastry and coffee, a leisurely lunch, or evening spritzes and small plates.

THE ROLE

As Head Host, you will be the face of Cafe Linea and the first point of contact for our guests. Your role is to create a seamless, warm, and memorable first impression, while ensuring the smooth flow of reservations, walk-ins, and table management. This is a leadership-focused host position, combining excellent guest-facing skills with strong operational oversight.

Key Responsibilities

Guest Relations

Provide a warm, professional welcome to every guest, ensuring a world-class first impression. Manage the reservation system (SevenRooms) and seating plans to optimise flow, maximise covers, and ensure excellent service. Handle all bookings (phone, online, and walk-ins) with precision and efficiency. Act as the go-to person for guest concerns or special requests, resolving issues with professionalism and care. Communicate effectively with the floor team and kitchen to ensure seamless service. Maintain a clean, organised, and inviting host station and entrance area. Present menus, highlight daily specials or promotions, and ensure guests feel valued from arrival to departure.

Leadership & Team Support

Lead by example on the floor, assisting during peak service times and supporting the front-of-house team. Assist in building shift schedules, managing events-related enquiries, and ensuring operational readiness. Train and mentor junior hosts and the service team on guest experience best practices.

Service & Operational Excellence

Maintain high service standards, ensuring every step of the guest journey is thoughtfully executed. Track and record guest preferences for personalised experiences. Monitor guest flow and suggest improvements to enhance efficiency, particularly with reservations and table turnover. Uphold all health, safety, and food hygiene regulations. Support private event operations, ensuring every detail aligns with Cafe Linea's premium standards.

Continuous Improvement

Collect and analyse guest and team feedback to drive improvements in service and operations. Collaborate with the leadership team to develop new guest engagement strategies.

WHO YOU ARE

Passionate Hospitality Professional:

You have a natural flair for creating memorable guest experiences and a genuine love for hospitality.

Guest-First Mindset:

You are detail-oriented, empathetic, and uncompromising when it comes to service excellence.

Confident Leader:

You motivate and inspire your team, leading by example while staying humble and approachable.

Organised & Solutions-Oriented:

You thrive in a fast-paced environment, balancing multiple priorities with ease.

Tech-Savvy:

Comfortable with reservation systems (experience with SevenRooms is a plus) and other operational tools.

Adaptable:

You enjoy the excitement of a start-up culture and excel at finding solutions in dynamic situations.

Growth-Oriented:

You are ambitious and want to grow with Cafe Linea, helping shape its culture and success.

WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU?

Be Part of Something Special:

Join a brand-new, high-profile venture at the ground level, with the opportunity to make a real impact.

Career Growth:

We are committed to your professional development, offering clear pathways for progression as the business expands.

Competitive Package:

Attractive salary plus performance-based bonuses and incentives.

Perks & Benefits:

+ Free staff meals during shifts and discounts on off-days.
+ 28 days of holiday (inclusive of bank holidays).
+ Structured training and development programmes.
+ Colleague recognition and awards with exciting prizes.
+ Birthday gift and career anniversary celebrations (complimentary meal for you and a friend each year).
+ "Refer a Friend" bonus scheme.
+ Cycle-to-Work Scheme.

INDFOH