Host

The Columbo Group; Manchester; On-site; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Host to join their vibrant team at a renowned venue. This role is essential in creating memorable experiences for guests, where you'll manage reservations, ensure smooth service, and maintain a welcoming atmosphere. If you are a naturally engaging person with a passion for hospitality and thrive in a fast-paced environment, this is the perfect opportunity for you. Join a dynamic team that values personal growth and offers exciting perks, including competitive pay, career development opportunities, and fantastic social benefits. Be part of a legendary venue that celebrates live music and exceptional service!

Benefits

50% off across venues

Career Growth Opportunities

Paid Weekend Off for Hero of the Month

Incentives for Top Sellers

Employee Referral Bonuses

Global Industry Trips

Pension via Nest

Qualifications

• At least 1 year of experience in a host or customer-facing role.
• Strong communication skills and a calm, organized approach.

Responsibilities

• Greet every guest warmly, setting the tone for an amazing experience.
• Manage booking systems and organize table plans for smooth service.

Skills

Communication Skills

Organizational Skills

Customer Service

Teamwork

Job description

We're looking for a Host to join our talented team at The Blues Kitchen.

As our Host, you’ll be the face of the venue — welcoming guests with warmth and personality, managing our booking systems, and helping to maximise the flow and experience of service. You’ll take reservations over the phone, support the day-to-day running of the restaurant, and ensure every guest leaves feeling looked after. You'll be the first to greet them and the last to say goodbye — creating memorable moments that turn first-time visitors into loyal regulars.

We’re looking for someone who is naturally engaging, highly organised, and thrives in a buzzing, fast-paced environment. Experience in hosting or a similar customer-facing role is a plus, but most importantly, we’re after someone who brings positive energy and a passion for hospitality.

What You’ll Do

1. Lead the Welcome – Greet every guest with warmth and confidence, setting the tone for an amazing experience.
2. Master the Flow – Manage booking systems, organise table plans, and keep communication tight with the team to ensure a smooth, efficient service.
3. Own the Front Desk – Handle phone bookings, guest enquiries and last-minute requests with ease and professionalism.
4. Support the Floor – Be a visible, positive presence throughout the venue, helping the team deliver top-notch hospitality from start to finish.

What We’re Looking For

1. At least 1 year of experience in a host or customer-facing role within a fast-paced, high-volume restaurant or bar.
2. A natural people person with strong communication skills and a calm, organised approach.
3. Someone who thrives in a team environment and is always ready to roll up their sleeves.
4. A genuine love for hospitality and a desire to grow — our Columbo Academy is here to support your journey into leadership if that’s where you’re headed.

What To Expect

1. Competitive Pay: £12.25 [hourly rate to be stated in contract] per hour plus tronc (total package usually in the range of £13 - £16 per hour). Hourly wages paid every two weeks on a Friday and tronc paid on the last Friday of the month.
2. Dynamic Shifts: Work a variety of daytime and evening shifts at our lively bar, restaurant, and music venue.
3. Casual Dress Code: No uniforms required—just bring your best self.

Why You’ll Love Working With Us

1. Food & Social Perks: Enjoy 50% off across our venues, plus access to our annual celebrations, events, and festivals.
2. Career Growth: At The Columbo Academy, your ambition is our inspiration. We’re here to guide you on a clear path to personal and professional success.
3. Hero of the Month: Stand out and be rewarded with a paid weekend off.
4. Incentives: Top sellers in drinks revenue receive a £50 voucher.
5. Employee Referrals: Earn £1,000 for Chef/Manager referrals or £250 for hourly roles when you bring in talent.
6. Global Industry Trips: For our top performers and wine experts, your next adventure awaits.
7. Pension via Nest: Secure your future with our pension plan.

The award-winning Blues Kitchen is one of London’s most beloved and iconic venues—a stunning space to enjoy live blues and soul from world-famous musicians, savor all-American favourites, and experience one of the UK’s most vibrant nightlife atmospheres. If you’re passionate about delivering exceptional service and ready to be part of a legendary team, we’d love to hear from you.