Host/Hostess FT
About the Resort
The Omni Homestead Resort & Spa has been delighting vacationers—including 24 U.S. Presidents—for over 250 years. A recently completed $170 million renovation restored the historic character of this Allegheny Mountain resort in Virginia. We are a four-season resort offering superb restaurant dining experiences, championship golf, a spa, winter sports, and numerous activities ideal for families and corporate outings.
Associates enjoy a dynamic and exciting work environment, comprehensive training and mentoring, and the pride that comes from working for a company with a reputation for exceptional service. We embody a culture of respect, gratitude, and empowerment.
About the Role
Responsible for delivering excellence in guest service by developing relationships with guests, providing personalized service, anticipating and delivering guests’ needs. The Host comprehends the restaurant operation and seats guests with a friendly demeanor, balancing guest expectations and operational needs.
Responsibilities
- Maintain and refine service standards, ensuring compliance with all hotel standards and local laws.
- Ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation awareness standards; prepare for health department and Ecosure inspections.
- Perform all host duties according to standard operating procedures, including answering phones, managing reservations and table assignments, greeting and seating guests, and explaining restaurant concepts.
- Complete side work as assigned, such as organizing the host stand, maintaining menu cleanliness, and adhering to trash procedures.
- Maintain complete knowledge of all food and beverage menu items.
- Report any need for housekeeping or maintenance of the restaurant and equipment to management.
- Maintain furniture, fixtures, and equipment to a high standard; minimize breakage by handling hotel assets with care.
- Follow proper steps of service when seating guests and ensure high-quality table sets prior to seating.
- Provide positive guest service, respond to complaints, and take appropriate actions to turn dissatisfied guests into return guests.
- Respond to guests’ requests accurately and timely, creating memorable experiences.
- Maintain knowledge of hotel offerings and local surroundings (e.g., nearby entertainment, theaters).
- Contribute to restaurant sanitation, timing of service, and quality control from kitchen to table.
- Attend daily stand-up meetings to gather relevant information prior to service.
- Contribute to the cleanliness and organization of all restaurant spaces, front and back of house.
- Execute all instructions on Restaurant Event Orders.
- Encourage and build mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among co-workers.
- Maintain a professional, neat, and organized appearance according to Omni standards.
- Respond swiftly and effectively in emergency or safety situations; ensure a safe working and guest environment.
- Attend all required department trainings and meetings.
- Perform any other duties required by leadership.
Requirements
- Hands-on food and beverage knowledge and a comprehensive understanding of the hospitality business.
- Minimum of relevant host experience in a fine dining restaurant is strongly preferred.
- Willingness to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, especially during busy times and high-profile events.
- Highly developed customer service skills; friendly, approachable demeanor with strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
- Proven ability to engage guests at all levels; passionate about providing warm, engaging, and personalized service.
- Able to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple priorities.
- Ability to maintain composure and a positive, professional demeanor under stress and during busy operations.
- Ability to report to work on time and as scheduled.
- Ability to stand and/or walk for extended periods.
- Must meet Omni’s standards of appearance and maintain a high level of personal hygiene.
- Clear, concise written and verbal communication skills; comfortable speaking with guests, management, and co-workers.
- Ability to communicate clearly and pleasantly in English, both verbally and in writing.
- Computer literacy, including experience with Payroll systems, Micros, and POS systems.
- Serve Safe certified; unexpired TIPs certification required.