Company Description
Location: On-site in Knutsford, Cheshire, North-West England (not remote)
Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere is one of the North West’s most distinguished luxury destinations. Nestled in the heart of the Cheshire countryside and surrounded by a championship golf course, the resort combines Fairmont’s world-renowned elegance with the warmth and character of its local heritage. Renowned for exceptional service and attention to detail, Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere offers guests an indulgent escape featuring world-class spa experiences, exceptional dining, and outstanding leisure facilities. Whether visiting for relaxation, celebration, or business, Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere is dedicated to creating unforgettable moments and delivering the very best in 5-star luxury hospitality.
Your purpose will be:
To lead the host team in delivering a flawless, high‑impact arrival experience that reflects the energy, precision, and elevated standards of Gordon Ramsay at The Mere. The Head Host ensures every guest is welcomed with confidence and warmth, manages the flow of the restaurant with absolute control, and supports the front‑of‑house team in delivering exceptional service from the moment guests step through the door.
Job Description
1. Lead the bar during assigned shifts, allocating tasks and ensuring smooth, efficient service in the absence of the Bar Manager
2. Prepare the bar and floor to a flawless standard ahead of service
3. Guide, support, and motivate the team, fostering a culture of excellence in service and drink creation
4. Take and deliver food and beverage orders with precision and confidence
5. Work closely with the Bar Manager to train, develop, and upskill the team
6. Oversee scheduling, sales incentives, training needs, and outlet responsibilities
7. Step behind the bar or onto the floor when required, leading by example
8. Anticipate guest needs and deliver warm, attentive, and proactive service
9. Delegate tasks effectively to maintain seamless service flow
10. Uphold Gordon Ramsay and Fairmont service standards at all times
11. Follow all beverage procedures, including ordering, stock control, and dispensing
12. Address guest issues promptly, professionally, and with ownership
13. Maintain expert knowledge of the bar list to maximise upselling opportunities
14. Handle cash, card, and room charge transactions accurately
15. Ensure the bar remains clean, organised, and service‑ready throughout the shift
16. Participate actively in team meetings, briefings, and training sessions
17. Maintain clear communication across the bar team and with other departments
18. Support recruitment and onboarding within the bar team
19. Lead the beverage programme for the bar, curating an exceptional selection aligned with Gordon Ramsay’s standards and guest expectations
20. Drive the creation and execution of the cocktail list, delivering innovative, on‑brand drinks that complement the venue’s identity
21. Engage with social media as an ambassador for the bar, showcasing its personality and building guest connection
22. Participate in bar takeovers, industry events, and brand activations, representing the venue with professionalism and passion
Qualifications
23. 1–2 years’ experience in a bar or beverage‑led environment, ideally premium or high‑end
24. Previous supervisory or team‑leading experience desirable
25. Strong knowledge of cocktails, spirits, and beverage trends
26. Food Safety Level 2 and Alcohol Licensing Awareness (or willingness to complete)
27. Confident cash handling and POS experience
28. Excellent communication and leadership skills
29. Ability to work under pressure while maintaining a polished, professional presence
30. Experience with stock control and ordering processes beneficial
31. Passion for hospitality, guest engagement, and delivering exceptional service
Additional Information
What is in it for you?
32. Exclusive Discounts:Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere, Spa and Golf discountFairmont, Raffles, and Accor Hotels (friends and family rates are included)20% off food and beverage in on-site restaurants
33. Colleague restaurant
34. Being part of The Mere Team – our culture is unique!
35. You will benefit from training and development opportunities
36. Competitive salary and benefits including pension
37. 28 days of holiday including public holidays
38. 1-5 days service award based on length of service
39. Special rates for Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere colleagues and their friends & family and discount across Accor hotels worldwide
40. And last but not least you will get to work with a team of EXTRAORDINARY people