Lead Host - Theodosia

Lead Host - TheodosiaDepartment: Food & Beverage Front of HouseDirect Report: Front of House Supervisor / Restaurant General ManagerPurpose: Lead and execute all host stand operations at Theodosia by managing reservations, guest flow, seating strategy, and host team performance while delivering exceptional first impressions aligned with EOS Hospitality and Sanderling Resort standards.The Sanderling Resort, located in Duck, North Carolina, is the premier oceanfront destination in the Outer Banks, offering refined coastal hospitality, elevated culinary programming, and memorable guest experiences. Theodosia serves as the resort's signature, chef-driven dining experience, celebrating regional ingredients, seasonality, and sophisticated yet welcoming service.The Lead Host is responsible for overseeing the host stand, managing reservations and seating efficiency, and ensuring a warm, professional, and organized guest arrival experience. This position combines guest-facing hospitality with operational leadership and floor coordination.Job Summary:Serve as shift leader for host stand operations, supervising Hosts during assigned shiftsManage reservation systems and floor plans to optimize table turns and seating efficiencyMaintain accurate reservation records, guest notes, VIP designations, and special requestsCoordinate closely with Restaurant General Manager and Front of House leadership on seating strategy and pacingAdjust floor plans in real time based on business levels and service flowGreet guests warmly and professionally, creating a positive first impressionAccurately quote wait times and manage guest expectations during high-volume periodsMonitor lobby and entrance area cleanliness and organizationAssist in training new Hosts on reservation systems, phone etiquette, seating charts, and service standardsCommunicate clearly with Servers, Food Runners, and Supervisors regarding table readiness and pacingMonitor service timing and table status to maintain balanced sectionsSupport guest recovery efforts related to wait times or reservation discrepanciesAnswer phone calls professionally, manage reservations, and provide accurate restaurant informationAssist with menu updates and printed materials at host standEnsure compliance with dress code, appearance standards, and guest interaction expectations for host teamParticipate in daily pre-shift meetings to review reservations, VIP guests, and operational focusAssist with opening and closing procedures including system setup, report review, and lobby cleanlinessDemonstrate a team-focused attitude and support overall front-of-house operationsUnderstand and use safe work practices including Emergency Procedures and workplace safety standardsAttend meetings and training sessions as requiredComply with all policies outlined in the Handbook, Property Supplement, or otherwise issued including time and attendance expectations, uniform standards, anti-harassment policy, and workplace conductEssential Functions of the Job:Ability to remain standing for up to 810 hoursAbility to move quickly and efficiently in a fast-paced environmentAbility to remain composed while managing high guest traffic and multiple phone linesAbility to communicate clearly and professionally with guests and team membersAbility to read, write, speak, and understand basic EnglishAbility to operate computer and reservation systems accuratelyAbility to complete a satisfactory background checkAbility to work flexible hours based on business needs including evenings, weekends, and holidaysTechnology and Equipment Used:Reservations Software (e.g., OpenTable)Point of Sale System (basic navigation)Scheduling, Timekeeping, and Labor Management SoftwarePhone and Two-Way Communication DevicesTime clock and time clock systemsComputer and PrinterBasic Cleaning ToolsWorking Environment:Work will primarily take place in a hotel resort and restaurant entrance/lobby environmentFast-paced setting with seasonal fluctuations in volumeFrequent guest interaction and coordination with Front of House and Culinary teamsExposure to moderate noise levels and high guest traffic during peak serviceKey Skills & Experience Required:2+ years of restaurant host or front-of-house experience preferredPrevious leadership or senior host experience preferredStrong organizational and communication skillsAbility to multitask and manage guest flow efficientlyProfessional appearance and demeanorStrong guest service orientation and hospitality mindsetAbility to remain calm under pressureSuccessful completion of satisfactory background checkAvailable and willing to work flexible hours based on business needs including weekdays and weekendsNo job description for a position can possibly include all duties which may be requested by guests or required by the hotel. The objective of all positions is to effectively provide the services personally, or to immediately refer requests to the appropriate department manager. The items listed above are a summary of the major responsibilities of the position that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Equal Opportunity EmployerThis employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.