Head Waiter

A smiling welcome, the glittering effect of lights reflected on silverware and crockery, a white glove opening the menu to indicate and explain the fine culinary creations offered by MSC Cruises, then smoothly pouring carefully chosen wine into sparkling glasses, bringing joy and rising excitement as superbly presented dishes are served...

This is the incredible atmosphere our Dining Service Team creates onboard our guests.

The magic of MSC Cruises' dining venues, the wide choice of specialty restaurants, the expert support of our Maîtres d'hôtel, and the excellent service our Waiters and Sommeliers provide set the scene for the most satisfying lunches and dinners.

JOB PURPOSE

MSC Cruises is expanding its onboard Food & Beverage team and is hiring a Head Waiter. This role involves working closely with the Dining Services Team to ensure the correct execution of F&B product and service delivery in all Dining Venues in line with company guidelines. The Head Waiter is in constant contact with the management team, reporting achieved results, providing appropriate feedback, and promptly addressing issues. The Head Waiter supports the on-board team, actively assesses the operation, addresses corrective actions, identifies training needs, and evaluates staff performance.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

Establishes and maintains standards for consistent quality in all Dining Services venues (dining rooms, buffet, room service, and crew messes).Monitors and reports the correct execution of key operational processes, such as training, quality control, steps of service, inventory, and ordering processes.Ensures that food is handled and served in compliance with U.S.P.H, Anvisa, and Shipsan standards in accordance with ship's deployment and Covid-19 service protocols.Observes operations and assists in establishing standard operating procedures to improve service delivery and daily operations.Monitors staff performance, attitude, and behavior, ensuring swift correction when required as indicated by the Dining Team.Monitors equipment par levels, verifies endowments with the onboard management, and suggests revisions when required.Constantly monitors customer satisfaction and comment form results per cruise, ensures alignment with company targets, reports on trends analysis, and suggests improvements.Monitors beverage and food sales, ensures alignment with assigned targets, supports the management, and suggests improvements.Supports the Dining team in the development of dining concepts, training documents, and software improvements.Assists the Dining team in further developing the performance of wait staff and puts forward suggestions for promotions.Ensures that employee services duties are carried out in accordance with company policies and standards.Builds positive and effective relationships with the entire on-board Dining and F&B teams to create a positive environment, enabling employees to maximize their potential.Assists the Dining team and the Crew Office in scheduling the on-board dining staff.Presents an end-of-season report to be shared with the corporate office.QUALIFICATIONS (skills, competencies, experience)At least five years' experience in cruise ship management positions such as Head Waiter, Assistant Maitre d'hotel, or similar roles.Fluent English is compulsory; any other European languages are an advantage.Bachelor's degree in Hotel Management or equivalent work experience.Philippine passport holder; valid for at least 1 year.Extensive knowledge of Food Safety standards.Experience in dining table assignment using software like Silverwhere, Otalio, or other specific software.Proficient in MS Excel and PowerPoint.Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.Strong leadership and influencing skills.Experience in large operation crew scheduling dynamics.Customer service driven.Ability to plan, organize, and complete work in accordance with deadlines.Strong business acumen with the ability to create and enhance revenue opportunities.Willing to be on board for 8 months.

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