Guest Experience Lead | Starlite | Now Hiring

Culinary Agents is working with the team at Starlite to connect them with talented hospitality professionals. Starlite - Now Hiring: Guest Experience Lead Click here to learn more & apply today! Located on the 21st floor of the Beacon Grand (originally established as The Sir Francis Drake Hotel), Starlite has been a San Francisco icon since 1928. Known for its association with prominent figures such as Harry Denton, Alan Ginsberg, and Herb Caen, the venue is a frequent figure in the city's cultural narrative. Having reopened in February 2024, the reinvented interiors and conceptual direction pay homage to the past, while beckoning a fresh chapter in its storied journey. Starlite is looking for an accomplished Guest Experience Lead to collaborate with ownership and its esteemed partners to evolve its legacy. The Guest Experience Lead represents Starlite with the highest levels of hospitality, and must interact with bar guests, fellow employees, and management in a professional and collaborative manner to create an exemplary and truly memorable experience. WHAT YOU'LL DO: Guest Experience ● Extend a polished, genuine welcome to each guest, ensuring they feel valued from the moment they arrive. ● Anticipate needs and act with a sense of urgency to provide timely, attentive service at every stage of the guest experience. ● Guide guests confidently, sharing menus, recommendations, and Starlite’s unique story. ● Recognize and celebrate regulars, VIPs, and special occasions, communicating key details to the team. ● Balance a gracious presence with efficiency, keeping the guest journey seamless and on pace. Reservations & Flow Management ● Manage reservations and waitlists, balancing high-demand nights with clear, proactive communication. ● Monitor floor capacity, pacing, and events, adjusting seating assignments in real time. ● Collaborate with FOH managers and service staff to maintain a smooth flow of tables and guest experiences. Team Leadership ● Lead and inspire the host team to embody Starlite’s hospitality standards. ● Delegate responsibilities, ensure coverage at the door and phone, and model professional, gracious service. ● Keep the host stand organized, polished, and welcoming as the first impression of Starlite for every guest. ● Act as the communication bridge between guests, the host team, and managers. WHO YOU ARE: ● Guest-focused, warm, and polished, with excellent communication skills. ● Experienced in hospitality (2+ years preferred), ideally in high-volume or high-profile settings. ● Skilled at multitasking and troubleshooting with composure and urgency. ● A natural leader and collaborator who elevates the performance of those around you. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities ● Extensive OpenTable experience, with the ability to manage high-volume reservations and waitlists ● Understanding of Starlite's food & beverage and hospitality philosophy & menus ● Knowledge of standard restaurant service procedures ● Knowledge of each job function on the floor and understanding of the priorities of service ● Must be punctual and reliable ● Must be available to work days, nights, weekends, and holidays Work Environment ● Involves standing and walking the entire shift ● Involves holding objects with hands ● Involves reaching, bending, and stooping frequently ● Involves lifting, moving, and carrying at least 25 pounds with frequency throughout the shift Company Benefits ● Medical / Dental / Vision Insurance after one month of service ● 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match ● Generous Paid Time Off Policy ● Dining Discounts ● Pre-Tax Commuter Benefit ● Service Charge & Tips Pay Rate: Starting at $28/hour + service charge Reports To: Starlite GM and AGM EOE: Beacon Grand is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on any characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws. Create your FREE profile on CulinaryAgents.com to apply to any job with a single click! Plus, start receiving alerts for new opportunities that match your skills and experience.