About Company
Imperial Hotel Kisumu stands as a beacon of hospitality in the heart of Kisumu, Kenya. Renowned for its elegant accommodations, exceptional dining experiences, and world-class service, we pride ourselves on creating memorable moments for every guest. Our diverse culinary offerings range from exquisite local delicacies to international cuisines, served in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere across multiple restaurant outlets and event spaces. As a cornerstone of the Kisumu community, we are not just a hotel; we are a hub for cultural exchange, business meetings, and joyous celebrations. We are a team dedicated to excellence, constantly striving to uphold our reputation as Kisumu’s premier hotel destination. Joining Imperial Hotel means becoming part of a family that values passion, professionalism, and a genuine desire to serve, contributing to an environment where every individual’s contribution is recognized and celebrated.
Job Description
Are you a charismatic individual with a passion for people and impeccable service? Imperial Hotel Kisumu is seeking a dynamic and dedicated Waiter/Waitress to join our esteemed Food & Beverage team. This is a pivotal role for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is committed to delivering outstanding customer experiences. As a Waiter/Waitress, you will be the welcoming face of our vibrant dining establishments, guiding guests through their culinary journey with warmth, efficiency, and expert knowledge of our diverse menu offerings. Your responsibilities will extend beyond mere order-taking; you will anticipate needs, address inquiries with insightful recommendations, and ensure every guest feels valued and leaves with a delightful and memorable impression. We are looking for an individual who embodies professionalism, has a keen eye for detail in table settings and guest interactions, and possesses excellent communication skills, capable of engaging guests from various backgrounds. If you are eager to contribute to a team that consistently sets the standard for hospitality in Kisumu and are dedicated to crafting unforgettable dining experiences, we encourage you to apply. This role offers the opportunity to grow your career within a prestigious hotel environment, enhance your skills through continuous training, and contribute directly to a legacy of unparalleled service excellence that defines Imperial Hotel Kisumu. We believe that exceptional service begins with exceptional people, and we are excited to welcome a new member to our culinary family who shares our unwavering commitment to perfection and guest satisfaction.
Key Responsibilities
- Warmly greet and seat guests, presenting menus and explaining daily specials with enthusiasm and clarity.
- Take accurate food and beverage orders, offering recommendations and answering questions regarding menu items, ingredients, and preparation methods.
- Serve food and beverages promptly and professionally, ensuring correct presentation and temperature.
- Monitor dining areas to anticipate guest needs, promptly clearing tables, refreshing drinks, and attending to specific requests.
- Process guest payments efficiently and accurately using the point-of-sale (POS) system.
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of dining areas, including tables, chairs, service stations, and glassware.
- Collaborate effectively with kitchen staff, baristas, and other team members to ensure seamless service flow and guest satisfaction.
- Handle guest complaints or concerns with patience, empathy, and diplomacy, escalating complex issues to management when necessary.
- Adhere strictly to all food safety and hygiene regulations, as well as the hotel's established service standards and procedures.
- Assist with setting up and breaking down dining areas for various events, banquets, and special functions as required.
Required Skills
- Proven experience (at least 1 year) as a Waiter/Waitress in a reputable restaurant or hotel setting.
- Exceptional customer service and strong interpersonal skills.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and active listening, with a polite and professional demeanor.
- Ability to work efficiently, calmly, and effectively in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
- Solid knowledge of food and beverage service procedures, including table etiquette.
- Basic mathematical skills for handling payments, making change, and managing tabs.
- Physical stamina to stand and walk for extended periods, and lift trays and items weighing up to 25 lbs.
- Flexibility to work various shifts, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays.
Preferred Qualifications
- A certificate or diploma in Hospitality Management, Food & Beverage Service, or a related field from a recognized institution.
- Familiarity with various types of cuisine, wine pairings, and beverage offerings.
- Proficiency in using point-of-sale (POS) systems for order entry and payment processing.
- Fluency in additional local languages (e.g., Dholuo, Swahili) is a distinct advantage.
- Demonstrated ability to upsell menu items and provide informed recommendations to guests.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and attractive service charge opportunities.
- Comprehensive health insurance package.
- Opportunities for continuous professional development and career advancement within a leading hotel group.
- Complimentary staff meals provided during shifts.
- Exclusive employee discounts on hotel services and amenities.
- A supportive, dynamic, and collaborative work environment.
- Regular training programs to enhance hospitality skills and knowledge.
How to Apply
Interested candidates who meet the above qualifications are invited to apply. Please click on the application link below to submit your detailed CV and a compelling cover letter outlining your experience, highlighting your customer service expertise, and explaining why you are the ideal candidate for this role. Ensure your application clearly demonstrates your passion for hospitality and your readiness to contribute to our team.