Head Receptionist - Somerset West

HotelJobs; Somerset West; On-site; ZAR 360,000 - 420,000; Full time

Job summary

HotelJobs is seeking an experienced Head Receptionist for a luxury estate/hotel near Somerset West. You will lead the Front Office team, ensuring seamless guest experiences and adherence to five‑star standards.

Responsibilities include managing shifts, resolving guest requests, and maintaining professional standards. A hospitality/Front Office qualification and 3–5 years in luxury Front Office are required; Protel experience is advantageous.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years' experience in Front Office within a luxury hotel environment.
• 1–2 years' experience in a senior receptionist/supervisory role.
• Protel experience advantageous.
• Strong communication and organisational skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee reception operations during assigned shifts to ensure smooth functioning.
• Lead, supervise and support Reception team to complete duties accurately.
• Act as senior point of contact in absence of Front Office Manager.
• Ensure guests receive warm, professional and personalised service.
• Maintain proactive presence at Reception during peak periods.

Skills

Front Office leadership

Guest service excellence

Communication

Team motivation

Education

Hospitality/Front Office qualification

Tools

Protel

Job description

Luxury Estate; Hotel & Spa based close to Somerset West is looking for an experienced, professional and service-driven Head Receptionist to join their Front Office team. This is a key guest-facing leadership position for an individual who understands the standards expected within a luxury 5* environment and takes pride in delivering warm, personalised and seamless guest experiences. The Head Receptionist will oversee the reception operation during assigned shifts, support and guide the reception team ; and ensure that all guest service, administrative and financial procedures are consistently executed to the highest standards.

Duties:

• Take responsibility for the smooth and efficient operation of Reception during assigned shifts.
• Lead; supervise and support Reception team members, ensuring all duties are completed accurately and efficiently.
• Act as the senior point of contact in the absence of the Front Office Manager.
• Ensure guests receive a warm, professional and personalised welcome and farewell.
• Maintain a visible and proactive presence at Reception, particularly during peak periods.
• Manage check-ins, check-outs, guest requests, queries and complaints with professionalism and urgency.
• Resolve guest concerns effectively and escal…

Requirements:

• A hospitality, hotel management, tourism or Front Office qualification from a recognised institution.
• At least 3–5 years' experience in Front Office/Reception within a luxury or 4/5-star hotel environment.
• At least 1–2 years' experience in a senior receptionist, supervisory or similar Front Office leadership position.
• Previous experience with a recognised hotel property management system; Protel experience will be advantageous.
• Strong knowledge of hotel Front Office procedures, including check-in, check-out, guest accounts, billing and cash-up procedures.
• Experience handling guest complaints and resolving service-related matters professionally.
• Proven ability to lead, support and motivate a Front Office team.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong administrative and organisational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Professional telephone etiquette and a confident, polished manner.
• The ability to remain calm and professional under pressure.
• Strong understanding of luxury guest service standards.
• A professional appearance and manner appropriate to a luxury 5-star hotel.
• A flexible approach to working shifts, weekends and public holidays as required by hotel operations.
• Genuinely passionate about luxury hospitality and creating memorable guest experiences.
• Takes pride in representing the brand and creating a refined and welcoming experience for every guest.