Lead Hostess (Catalina Restaurant)

The Catalina Lead Hostess plays a key role in delivering exceptional guest experiences while supporting the restaurant’s daily operations. This position goes beyond traditional hosting duties, combining front-of-house service with administrative and reservation management responsibilities. The role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage high-volume reservations across multiple platforms while maintaining clear communication with leadership and culinary teams.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage and coordinate reservations using OpenTable and other booking platforms, ensuring accuracy and optimal table allocation.
• Handle high volumes of reservations during both service and office hours, maintaining efficiency and professionalism.
• Act as the primary point of contact for guest inquiries, special requests, and reservation changes.
• Maintain consistent and clear communication with restaurant leadership, chefs, and service teams regarding bookings, guest preferences, and operational needs.
• Monitor and update reservation systems to reflect real-time availability and maximize seating efficiency.
• Support front-of-house operations by greeting and seating guests, ensuring a seamless and welcoming experience.
• Assist in creating and updating guest communications, menus, and operational materials using Canva and InDesign.
• Utilize Opera and Avero systems for guest data management, reporting, and operational insights.
• Ensure all guest interactions meet the highest standards of hospitality and brand expectations.
• Maintain detailed records of guest preferences, VIPs, and special events to enhance personalized service.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Proven experience in a high-volume hospitality or restaurant environment.
• Preferable Customer Service Experience 
• Strong working knowledge of OpenTable and reservation management systems.
• Proficiency in Canva and Adobe InDesign for basic design and communication materials.
• Familiarity with Opera and Avero systems is highly preferred.
• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to multitask and perform under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills with a guest-first mindset.
• Flexibility to support both operational shifts and office-based administrative tasks.

Key Competencies:

• Detail-oriented and highly organized
• Proactive and solution-driven
• Strong collaboration and communication skills
• Ability to maintain composure in high-pressure situations
• Commitment to delivering exceptional guest service

Working Conditions:

• Combination of front-of-house service and administrative office hours
• Evening, weekend, and holiday availability may be required