Head Host/ess Ottolenghi

Mandarin Oriental Conservatorium is looking for a Head Host/ess to join our Ottolenghi team.

Are you a master of craft? Do you thrive in a team that succeeds together, demonstrating integrity and respect while acting responsibly? Do you embrace a growth mindset? We invite you to become a fan of the exceptional. 

Mandarin Oriental is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the most luxurious hotels, resorts and residences located in prime destinations around the world, with a strong development pipeline. Increasingly recognised for creating some of the world’s most sought-after properties, the Group provides legendary service inspired by Asian heritage whilst representing the very cutting-edge of luxury experiences.

About the job

As the Head Host/ess, you will be the first and last impression of our restaurant, creating a warm, vibrant, and personalized guest experience that reflects both the spirit of Ottolenghi and Mandarin Oriental’s legendary service culture. You will lead the hosting team, manage reservations, and ensure a seamless and engaging flow of service in a dynamic, high-energy dining environment.

As Head Host/ess, you will be responsible for:

• Providing a genuine, welcoming, and engaging guest experience from arrival to departure;
• Leading the host team and ensuring consistent service excellence;
• Managing reservations and guest flow using systems such as SevenRooms/OpenTable;
• Creating strategic seating plans that balance guest comfort and operational efficiency;
• Ensure compliance with MOHG standards (LQA, Forbes Travel Guide) while maintaining Ottolenghi’s distinct identity;
• Recognizing and personalizing service for VIPs, hotel, and returning guests;
• Handling guest feedback and resolving issues with confidence and professionalism;
• Collaborating closely with restaurant, kitchen, and hotel teams;
• Maintaining a vibrant yet refined atmosphere, aligned with Ottolenghi’s concept.

As Head Host/ess, we expect from you:

• Bachelor’s degree or Diploma in Hospitality Management or related field;
• Previous experience in a leadership role within a luxury or high-end restaurant environment;
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills;
• Guest-focused with a warm and engaging personality;
• Attention to detail and accuracy in handling reservations and guest preferences;
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities;
• Proficiency in the English language. Proficiency in Dutch is a plus;
• Genuine passion for hospitality and guest experience.
• Professional grooming and presentation.

Our commitment to you:

• A salary in scale IV of the Dutch Horeca CAO;
• Excellent career progression with an iconic, luxury, global hotel brand. A lot of our colleagues joined us at the beginning of their career and are now leading their own teams and divisions;
• Fantastic learning and development opportunities for all levels of staff, with targeted development programs to get you ready for the next step in your career;
• Discounted stays at our beautiful properties across the Group;
• Multiple additional benefits, such as supplemented staff meals, uniform/laundry service, ticket raffles and a 50% contribution to your pension fund;
• Travel allowance of €0,21 per kilometer for distances of 5 kilometers or more;
• F&B Discount Card – discounts at restaurants at high-end hotels in Amsterdam;
• Discounted collective health insurance and weekly yoga sessions with our personal trainers;

Discover your role within our luxury hotel:
Our teams consist of a diverse group of talented people with a wide range of backgrounds and specialties. This committed team is united by an open work culture that celebrates individuality, emphasises performance and encourages everyone to achieve their full potential. In addition to our commitment to the highest level of service we take pride in a longstanding track record of sustainable practices woven into every layer or our company.

Apply through this website and let us know why you are interested! We look forward to seeing your application. For any questions, reach out to us via +31 (0)20-570 0043. Please ensure eligibility to work in the Netherlands and secure housing in Amsterdam prior to applying. Due to high application volume, we will respond only to candidates meeting these criteria.

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