Job Description:
Position Overview: As an Assistant Maitre'D on a cruise ship, you will play a vital role in ensuring smooth and efficient restaurant operations. You will support the Maitre'D in overseeing the dining room, managing the restaurant staff, and providing exceptional guest service. Your leadership, organizational skills, and attention to detail will contribute to a memorable dining experience for guests onboard.
Responsibilities:
- Restaurant Operations:
- Assist the Maitre'D in coordinating and supervising all aspects of the dining room operations.
- Ensure that the dining room is set up correctly, including table settings, decorations, and overall ambiance.
- Oversee table assignments, seating arrangements, and reservation management.
- Monitor the flow of guests and ensure efficient seating and service.
- Guest Service:
- Provide personalized and attentive service to guests, addressing their needs and preferences.
- Greet guests, escort them to their tables, and assist with seating arrangements.
- Handle guest inquiries, requests, and complaints in a professional and timely manner.
- Collaborate with the Maitre'D to resolve any guest issues or concerns.
- Staff Management:
- Assist the Maitre'D in managing the restaurant staff, including waiters, busboys, and hosts/hostesses.
- Train and mentor new staff members, ensuring they understand service standards and protocols.
- Monitor staff performance, provide feedback, and address any performance or behavior issues.
- Assist in creating staff schedules, ensuring adequate coverage during meal times.
- Quality Control:
- Ensure that all service standards and procedures are followed, maintaining consistency and quality.
- Monitor and maintain cleanliness and hygiene standards in the dining room and service areas.
- Conduct regular inspections of tables, chairs, linens, and table settings to ensure they meet the required standards.
- Collaborate with the culinary team to ensure prompt and accurate delivery of food orders.
- Special Events and VIP Service:
- Assist in organizing and executing special events, theme nights, and other dining experiences.
- Coordinate with the Maitre'D and culinary team to accommodate special dietary requests and preferences.
- Provide VIP service to high-profile guests, ensuring their needs are met and exceeded.
- Assist in organizing and managing private dining arrangements and functions.
- Administrative Duties:
- Assist in maintaining accurate records, including reservation logs, guest preferences, and special requests.
- Collaborate with the Maitre'D and restaurant management team in menu planning and menu changes.
- Prepare reports and analysis related to dining room operations, guest satisfaction, and staff performance.
- Assist in inventory management, including monitoring and replenishing restaurant supplies.
Qualifications:
- Previous experience in a supervisory role, preferably as a Head Waiter, Assistant Maitre'D, or similar position in a fine dining establishment.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong leadership and team management abilities.
- Customer-focused mindset with a passion for delivering exceptional service.
- Ability to multitask and work well under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
- Attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
- Flexibility to work long hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as required on a cruise ship.
- Proficiency in multiple languages is a plus.
- Knowledge of wine and beverage service is beneficial.