Job Description Job Title: Head Waiter Reporting to: Founder Location: Central London – Mayfair Contract Type: Fixed-term contract - 6 months (Possibility of permanent role) Salary: £31,000 – £34,000 per annum bonus scheme (based on performance and customer satisfaction) About the Client / Firm The Client is a long-established, family-run restaurant located in the heart of Mayfair, Central London. The restaurant serves Lebanese-inspired tapas in a relaxed, café-style setting, with a strong emphasis on presentation, calm service, and guest experience. Having operated under the same ownership for nearly two decades, the business is now reopening with a refreshed concept, a brand-new team, and a renewed focus on professional, personable hospitality. The venue benefits from a high tourist footfall and a Parisian-style terrace, offering a unique and enjoyable working environment. This is an exciting opportunity to join the reopening team and help shape service standards and culture from day one. Role Overview The Head Waiter will play a key leadership role within the front-of-house team, supporting the reopening of the restaurant and setting the standard for service and guest experience. This role is focused on calm, confident hospitality, not rushed service. You will lead by example on the floor, support and guide the front-of-house team, and ensure guests receive a warm, professional, and consistent experience at all times. Strong performance will be recognised, with a clear progression route into management roles as the business grows. Key Responsibilities Lead front-of-house service and set service standards from reopening Deliver exceptional customer service in a calm, relaxed environment Maintain high standards of professional presentation for yourself and the team Support training and development of a newly formed front-of-house team Work closely with the kitchen leadership to ensure smooth service Handle guest queries and concerns confidently and professionally Ensure service is delivered in line with agreed systems and procedures Support peak service periods while maintaining a composed and welcoming atmosphere Performance & Key Deliverables High levels of customer satisfaction and positive guest feedback Consistency of service standards and professionalism Effective leadership and support of the front-of-house team during service Smooth handling of busy periods without compromising guest experience Active contribution to building a positive reopening culture Candidate Profile Essential Skills & Experience Previous experience as a Senior Waiter or Head Waiter Strong customer service skills with a calm leadership presence Excellent communication and team coordination abilities High standards of professional presentation and conduct Willingness to learn, follow systems, and support a reopening environment Desirable Skills & Experience Experience in high-footfall or tourist-focused Central London venues Experience supporting training, onboarding, or reopening teams Training & Progression Full training provided as part of the reopening Rapid progression opportunities for strong performers Clear front-of-house progression route: Head Waiter → Assistant Manager Additional Responsibilities Uphold restaurant standards, values, and service expectations at all times Maintain a professional appearance and positive attitude on shift Comply with all health & safety regulations and internal policies Treat colleagues fairly and work in line with equal opportunity principles Demonstrate flexibility when required to support business needs Contribute ideas and feedback to improve service quality and team performance Working Pattern Operating hours: 10:30am - 11:00pm Typical shifts: Opening: 08:30am - 5:00pm Closing: 4:30pm - 11:30pm Double shifts may be available Step Ahead is acting as an Employment Agency. Step Ahead is committed to preventing discrimination in its recruitment practices by stimulating genuine equality of opportunity. This means that everyone is treated solely on the basis of competence and merit, regardless of age, gender, marital status, sexuality, ethnicity, racial, religious or disability considerations, and we welcome applications from all sectors of the community.