FOH Leader - Guest Experience & Beverage Program

AS Food Co.; Cambridge; On-site; NZD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Autonomy to lead FOH

Creative freedom for beverage program

Direct support from owners

Professional development

Stable leadership

People‑focused workplace

Job summary

Alpha Street Kitchen & Bar in Cambridge, NZ is seeking an hands‑on Front‑of‑House Leader to own the guest experience and front‑of‑house operation. You’ll be on the floor during service, setting the tone and leading by example, not directing from the sidelines.

You will recruit, train and roster a professional team, manage reservations and table flow, and collaborate closely with the owner and kitchen leadership to deliver a cohesive food and beverage experience.

Qualifications

• 2–3 years' hospitality management experience.
• NZ Manager's Certificate.
• Natural on‑floor presence with hosting enjoyment.
• Ability to lead calmly during busy services.
• Strong instincts for service, atmosphere and timing.
• Experience developing people and building a strong team culture.
• Solid understanding of rostering, wage costs, margins, stock control.
• Genuine interest in wine and beverages with willingness to learn.
• Emotional intelligence, good judgement and clear communication.

Responsibilities

• Lead front‑of‑house services with warmth, confidence, and attention to detail.
• Create an authentic, welcoming guest experience for every guest.
• Build relationships with regulars and the Cambridge community.
• Read the room, manage reservations, pacing and guest expectations.
• Recruit, train, mentor and roster a professional front‑of‑house team.
• Establish standards while fostering a supportive, accountable workplace.
• Collaborate with owner and kitchen leadership to deliver cohesive beverage experiences.
• Own the beverage programme with freedom to develop wine, beer, cocktails, and non‑alcoholic offerings.
• Manage wage costs, beverage margins, stock control, ordering and waste.
• Maintain high standards of liquor licensing, food safety and health and safety.

Job description

Alpha Street Kitchen & Bar in Cambridge, NZ is seeking an hands‑on Front‑of‑House Leader to own the guest experience and front‑of‑house operation. You’ll be on the floor during service, setting the tone and leading by example, not directing from the sidelines.

You will recruit, train and roster a professional team, manage reservations and table flow, and collaborate closely with the owner and kitchen leadership to deliver a cohesive food and beverage experience.