Lead Host

Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel has masterfully transformed a Renaissance Revival landmark building, part of Curlett & Beelman's iconic architectural stamp on L.A. Designer Kelly Wearstler seamlessly elevates 148 rooms and suites with compelling creative design, vintage California influences, and a trove of original works by L.A. artists. Discover a trio of inviting dining destinations in one historic location, helmed by James Beard Award-winners Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne, along with a refined split-level rooftop pool-deck with uninterrupted views of city lights; plus 12,000 square feet of event spaces, including two suites that integrate the building’s sporting-club past by repurposing the vintage basketball court and indoor pool into inspired, unexpected design elements.

Job Summary:

The Lead Host serves as the first point of contact for guests upon arrival, setting the tone for a warm, welcoming, and seamless dining experience. In this role, you will oversee reservations, greet guests, manage waitlists, and coordinate seating to ensure efficiency and comfort. As the leader of the host team, you will guide and support hosts in maintaining smooth front-of-house operations, ensuring service flows effectively and the dining room remains organized. You will also handle guest inquiries with professionalism, assist in resolving seating challenges, and collaborate closely with management and service staff to create a memorable guest experience.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead by example in warmly welcoming all guests with professionalism, ensuring they feel valued from the moment they arrive.
• Maintain a polished and approachable demeanor, providing accurate information on menus, specials, and wait times.
• Oversee host team members in escorting guests to tables, ensuring seating arrangements are well-coordinated and comfortable.
• Build guest loyalty by recognizing repeat visitors, remembering preferences, and personalizing the dining experience.

Reservations & Waitlist Management

• Oversee and manage all reservation channels (phone, email, reservation system), ensuring accuracy in guest details and special requests.
• Direct host team in managing the waitlist, ensuring efficient communication and timely seating of guests.
• Monitor dining room flow strategically, balancing server sections and optimizing seating to maximize guest satisfaction and efficiency during peak hours.

Coordination & Communication

• Act as the primary liaison between the host stand, front-of-house, and kitchen teams to maintain seamless operations.
• Ensure the server team is updated on guest needs, including dietary restrictions, special requests, or VIP guests.
• Proactively manage guest flow and coordinate with management to adjust seating strategies as needed.
• Support communication across departments, ensuring consistent service standards and smooth handoffs.

Guest Experience & Problem Resolution

• Monitor the dining area and host stand, anticipating guest needs and stepping in to address concerns before they escalate.
• Handle guest issues with discretion, professionalism, and authority, ensuring swift resolutions and guest satisfaction.
• Model composure under pressure, creating a calm and welcoming environment even during high-volume service periods.

Team Leadership & Support

• Lead, coach, and support the host team to deliver consistently excellent guest service.
• Train new hosts, providing guidance on best practices for guest interactions, reservation management, and service flow.
• Provide hands-on support during peak periods, including answering phones, assisting with seating logistics, or helping with special guest requests.
• Collaborate with management to implement service improvements, share guest feedback, and support overall restaurant operations.

Education and/or Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous experience in a customer service or hospitality role, particularly in a restaurant, is preferred.
• Familiarity with reservation systems, phone etiquette, and customer service standards.
• Experience handling guest inquiries, managing waitlists, and working in a high-volume environment is a plus.

Skills/Specialized Knowledge

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage with guests and team members in a friendly and professional manner.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to multitask effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to maintain composure and professionalism during busy dining hours and high-stress situations.
• Proficient in handling guest reservations, managing waitlists, and using reservation software or systems.

Physical Demands

• Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout the restaurant for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry items such as menus, supplies, or occasionally heavier items like seating materials.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-energy environment with frequent interaction with guests.

Company Overview

Proper Hospitality is made up of a diverse group of passionate individuals who share a common love for hotels and the art of hospitality. Our philosophy is simple: There is a right way to do things and anything less just isn't proper. We are seeking out the best of the best from inside and outside of the industry to work alongside us as we grow a new kind of lifestyle Hospitality Company inspired by a centuries-old tradition. The work is challenging and fast-paced but rewarding above all.

Proper Hospitality provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, gender, gender identity or expression, genetics, or any other federal/state protected category.

Proper Hospitality will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with local Fair Chance Hiring Ordinances.