Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi is looking for a Maître D to join our Food & Beverage team.

Are you a master of craft? Do you thrive in a team that succeeds together, demonstrating integrity and respect while acting responsibly? Do you embrace a growth mindset? We invite you to become a fan of the exceptional. 

Mandarin Oriental is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the most luxurious hotels, resorts and residences located in prime destinations around the world, with a strong development pipeline. Increasingly recognised for creating some of the world’s most sought-after properties, the Group provides legendary service inspired by Asian heritage whilst representing the very cutting-edge of luxury experiences.

Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi is the definition of an unrivalled Arabian fantasy. From a 1.3km pristine private beach, landscaped pools and a private marina overlooking a natural bay, the hotel is located in the heart of Abu Dhabi and perfect for a once-in-a-lifetime holiday or for events and meetings that make a statement, with some of the city’s largest hotel conference centres. Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi offers award-winning 5-star luxury hospitality and authentic local experiences with 390 luxurious rooms and suites along with award-winning culinary cuisines.

About the job

Based at the Emirates palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi within the Food & Beverage Department, the Maître D is responsible for managing the hostess team, ensuring the smooth operation of the reception area, and driving the continuous development and performance of the team. The role also supports the Restaurant Manager in all operational, administrative, and financial aspects of the outlet, ensuring exceptional guest service and efficient day-to-day operations. In the absence of the Restaurant Manager, the Maître D assumes responsibility for the outlet and its operations. The Maître D reports to the Restaurant Manager/ Restaurant General Manager.

As Maître D, you will be responsible for the following duties:

• Ensure reservations are managed efficiently and seating capacity is maximized while maintaining an exceptional guest experience.
• Lead and supervise the Host/Hostess team, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations and high service standards.
• Support the Restaurant/General Manager in all operational, administrative, and financial aspects of the outlet.
• Adjust operational priorities based on business volumes and other operational requirements.
• Assume responsibility for the outlet in the absence of the Restaurant/General Manager.
• Ensure compliance with all operational standards, company policies, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and quality assurance measures.
• Assist the Restaurant/General Manager in preparing and monitoring side-duty schedules, ensuring completion and compliance by all team members.
• Support the Restaurant/General Manager in maintaining the cleanliness and upkeep of the outlet by conducting regular inspections with the Engineering and Housekeeping teams and following up on corrective actions.
• Oversee daily restaurant operations and manage shifts effectively to ensure seamless service delivery.
• Maintain effective communication and a strong working relationship with the Chef de Cuisine and the kitchen team, particularly during service periods.
• Identify opportunities to enhance service quality and food and beverage standards by reviewing guest feedback, quality audit reports, and incident reports, and provide recommendations to the Restaurant/General Manager.
• Support the Restaurant/General Manager in maintaining the accuracy of all Point of Sale (POS) systems, menus, and pricing, conducting regular audits as required.
• Ensure all menus are accurate, up to date, error-free, clean, and professionally presented.
• Adhere to all company accounting procedures, policies, and financial control requirements applicable to Food & Beverage operations.

As Maître D, we expect from you: 

• Minimum 3 years of experience in the same role in a luxury hotel is preferred; resort experience will be an advantage. 
• Degree or Higher National Diploma in Hospitality/Hotel/Business Management is preferred.
• International work experience in at least two of the following regions: Asia, Europe, North America and preferably Middle East.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, customer service and professional attitude.
• Well organized and possess a solid administrative capability.
• Proven ability to successfully support, motivate and lead a large and diverse team.
• Additional language will be a plus.

Our commitment to you

• Learning & Development. Your success is our success. We craft unique learning and development programmes for various stages in your career so that you grow, continuously.
• MOstay. When you work as hard as our colleagues do, it’s important to take time off. As a member of the #MOfamily, you can stay with us wherever you go in the world. The MOstay programme offers complimentary nights and additionally attractive rates on rooms for you and your loved ones.
• Heath & Colleague Wellness. Finding the right work-life balance is important. Your wellbeing matters to us. A variety of health benefits and wellness programmes are offered to all our colleagues, globally.
• Retirement Plans. When you show commitment to us, we reciprocate. We offer different retirement plans depending on the length of your service and your role.

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