Joels Restaurant jobs

Reception Manager - Guest Experience & Host Lead

Joel’s Restaurant | Dublin

The Role

We are seeking an experienced and confident Guest Experience & Host Lead to take ownership of the guest journey from first contact through to seating.

This is a highly visible, front-facing leadership role at the heart of a busy, high-volume restaurant. You will manage reservations, control guest flow, and lead the host team to ensure every guest receives a smooth, professional, and genuinely warm welcome.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment and takes pride in delivering exceptional first impressions while maintaining control during peak service.

Key Responsibilities

Guest Experience & Front of House Control

• Deliver a warm, confident, and professional first impression to all guests.
• Take full ownership of the guest flow, from bookings to seating.
• Manage walk-ins, waitlists, and table allocation during busy service periods.
• Handle guest enquiries, special requests, complaints, and service recovery with professionalism.
• Maintain calm, structured control during peak and high-pressure services.

Team Leadership & Coordination

• Lead and support the reception/host team during service.
• Train and coach team members on service standards, systems, and guest interaction.
• Set the tone for professionalism, pace, and communication.
• Coordinate team breaks, cover, and daily duties.

Reservations & Systems Management

• Oversee all reservations, ensuring accuracy and organisation at all times.
• Monitor booking patterns, covers, and table turn times to maximise efficiency.
• Manage large bookings, group reservations, and event allocations.
• Maintain detailed guest profiles, preferences, and VIP notes.

Communication & Service Flow

• Act as the key link between reception, floor team, kitchen, and management.
• Control the pacing of service through effective seating and communication.
• Keep guests informed of wait times and manage expectations professionally.

Standards & Presentation

• Maintain a clean, organised, and welcoming reception area.
• Ensure all procedures align with health & safety, licensing, and company standards.
• Uphold brand standards and consistently deliver a high-quality guest experience.

Skills & Experience Required

• Previous experience in a Senior Host, Reception Supervisor, or Reservations-led role in a busy restaurant or hospitality environment.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to multitask under pressure.
• Excellent communication and guest engagement skills.
• Confident decision-maker with a calm, structured approach.
• Experience managing reservations systems and high-volume guest flow.
• Strong cash handling and till experience.
• Natural leadership ability with a hands-on approach.

Why This Role Stands Out

• A key, visible leadership position within a high-volume, successful restaurant
• Real ownership of the guest experience and service flow
• Opportunity to lead, shape standards, and make an impact daily
• Career progression within a growing hospitality group

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From €35,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Bike to work scheme
• Company events
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Food allowance
• On-site parking

Application question(s):

• Are you aware this role will require you to work evenings and weekends?
• Are you legally allowed to work full time all year round?

Work Location: In person