HEAD HOSTESS (Gigi Restaurant) (F/M/X)

ABOUT ORIENT EXPRESS

Orient Express embodies the refined and nomadic spirit of travel. Its exceptional assets portfolio includes experiences such as The Orient Express — its iconic carriages reinvented as a modern-day tribute to French luxury, with ARSENALE Group owner — La Dolce Vita, a train celebrating the elegance of Italian art de vivre, and a collection of luxury hotels opened in Rome – La Minerva – and soon in Venice – Palazzo Dona Giovannelli, and with SILENSEAS - the O.E Corinthian, the world’s largest sailing ship.

While redefining the future of luxury hospitality, Orient Express places particular emphasis on the employee experience, development, and engagement.

As a symbol of ultra-luxury hospitality, the brand is currently undergoing an ambitious phase of rebirth and expansion accelerated since 2024 as a Joint Venture between ACCOR and LVMH.

Now, as Orient Express grows under the steam of its 140-year own glorious reputation and brand, it stands unique and identifiable from the other luxury brands under the ACCOR brands, aiming to become a pioneer of contemporary luxury hospitality, creating immersive experiences that combine exceptional design, impeccable service, culinary excellence, wellness offerings, cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and authentic local experiences, while also actively engaging in local community initiatives and support social causes, making a positive contribution to the destinations its properties operate in. What remains distinctly Orient Express is its spirit of adventure, sublime service and enchanting storytelling. Refreshing and reinvigorating, Orient Express is loved by those with an adventurous spirit and a taste for the very best, linking travel and destinations as part of the same journey.

ABOUT ORIENT EXPRESS LA MINERVA, ROME

Considered as the beloved capital of the Orient Express legend, Rome will be home to the first Orient Express hotel, La Minerva, in 2025. Orient Express, in partnership with the Italian luxury hotel group Arsenale S.p.A, has entrusted the interior architecture and artistic direction of the hotel Hugo Toro. The former Palazzo Fonseca is a sumptuous 17th-century palace with a huge, majestic façade. A place of memory still adorned with its Roman columns, sculptures by Rinaldo Rinaldi, a disciple of Canova, and the fascinating goddess Minerva. At the end of 2024, a new décor and interior inspired by the Roman domus and the riches of the "Eternal City" will be revealed with a new touch of contemporary elegance. 

ABOUT GIGI RIGOLATTO

Gigi Rigolatto is not just a restaurant—it is a destination where Italian elegance meets a vibrant, chic lifestyle. Known for its refined ambiance, stylish crowd, and unforgettable guest experience, Gigi Rigolatto Roma blends tradition with playfulness. As the first point of contact, the Reception Manager embodies the spirit of Gigi and ensures every guest is welcomed with grace, attention, and care.

The Reception Manager is the heart of the guest welcome experience and a key leader within the Hostess team. You will oversee all aspects of guest arrivals, reservations, and seating flow, ensuring a smooth, elegant, and efficient guest journey. Your presence sets the tone for the entire experience—from the first greeting to the final goodbye.

Key Responsibilities

Guest Welcome & Experience

• Greet and welcome all guests with warmth, elegance, and professionalism
• Ensure VIPs and regular guests are recognized and offered personalized service
• Handle reservations, special requests, and guest communication with precision and courtesy
• Be proactive and solution-oriented when dealing with guest concerns or last-minute changes

Team Leadership & Coordination

• Manage and train the host/hostess team, ensuring high grooming and service standards
• Allocate tasks and oversee podium operations to ensure smooth traffic and seating flow
• Work closely with the floor team and managers to coordinate table turns and pacing
• Organize team schedules and ensure adequate coverage for all shifts

Reservation & Guest Management

• Oversee reservation systems (e.g., SevenRooms, OpenTable, or similar) and ensure accurate guest profiles and seating charts
• Liaise with marketing and events teams for special bookings, collaborations, or large parties
• Maintain guest database and notes to enhance personalized service
• Support in daily reports, VIP lists, and shift handovers

Brand Representation

• Be the “face” of Gigi Rigolatto—stylish, composed, and naturally welcoming
• Ensure the entrance and reception area reflect the high aesthetic and service values of the brand
• Participate in brand events, activations, and seasonal moments as the guest-facing lead

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in a similar role within a premium or lifestyle hospitality venue
• Strong leadership and excellent communication skills 
• Curious, team player, caring about guests and employees, attention to details
• Fluent in Italian and English
• Excellent grooming, polished appearance, and a natural sense of hospitality
• Proficiency with reservation and guest management software
• Ability to remain professional and calm in a fast-paced, high volume environment, consistently delivering impeccable and elegant service to our guests
• Flexible schedule and availability on evenings, weekends and holidays
• Constant compliance with HACCP, Hotel’s hygiene standards, procedures and code of conduct
• Legal right to work in Italy