What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lead Host position at Chelsea Hospitality Group?
About Us
Chelsea Hospitality Group (CHG) is a family-owned hospitality company based in New Jersey, dedicated to creating world-class food and beverage experiences. CHG’s latest project in Morristown, NJ involves managing multiple food and beverage outlets within a sustainably built, mixed-use property. These outlets include a ground-floor restaurant, conference catering, pantry services, and pop-up concepts.
Job Overview:
As the Lead Host, you’ll be the face of our restaurant and a key leader in orchestrating a smooth and elevated guest experience. In addition to greeting guests and managing the host stand, you’ll oversee host team operations, train new hosts, manage reservations with precision, and ensure the front-of-house runs seamlessly. You’ll set the standard for hospitality and ensure each guest feels valued from the moment they arrive.
What You’ll Do:
● Lead the Welcome Experience: Serve as the first and lasting impression for every guest, setting the tone with warmth, professionalism, and genuine hospitality.
● Oversee Host Operations: Support and help train the host team to ensure consistency, efficiency, and a guest-first mindset across all shifts.
● Manage Seating and Flow: Strategically coordinate seating and waitlists to balance guest preferences with restaurant flow and server capacity.
● Handle Reservations: Oversee reservation systems, manage large party bookings, and ensure accurate communication between the front and back of house.
● Maintain a Polished Environment: Ensure the entrance and host areas are always clean, organized, and welcoming.
● Collaborate Across Teams: Communicate effectively with management, servers, and kitchen staff to maintain smooth operations and positive guest experiences.
● Resolve Guest Concerns: Address and resolve guest issues calmly and professionally, escalating when appropriate.
● Uphold and Train on Standards: Reinforce company policies, service standards, and safety protocols, helping train and guide hosts to deliver top-tier service.
Requirements
What We Need From You:
● Leadership Skills – Confidently lead a team, give direction, and offer mentorship while maintaining a hands-on, approachable style.
● Exceptional Hospitality – Deliver outstanding service with a guest-first mindset, setting an example for others to follow.
● Strong Organizational Skills – Ability to manage reservations, waitlists, and seating charts with clarity and efficiency.
● Professionalism – Represent the restaurant with poise, integrity, and a polished appearance.
● Adaptability – Stay calm and resourceful during busy or unpredictable periods, solving problems with composure.
● Clear Communication – Effectively coordinate between guests, team members, and management to ensure all expectations are met.
● Reliability and Energy – Show up on time, ready to lead, and maintain a high level of energy throughout each shift.
● Experience – Prior experience in hosting or front-of-house leadership is a must.
Benefits
What You’ll Get From Us:
● Comprehensive Medical, Dental, Life, and Vision insurance
● 401(k) to help you invest in your future
● Paid time off to support your life outside of work
● A leadership role within a collaborative and supportive team that shares CHG’s core values
● A pathway for continued growth and development as we expand and elevate our guest experience
We’re excited to welcome a passionate and capable Lead Host to our team—someone who will set the tone for hospitality excellence and inspire those around them every day.
