Front Office Manager

Sonesta Hotels•Hilton Head Island, SC

About The Position

We’re Sonesta International Hotels. The 8th largest hotel company in the U.S.—and growing fast. An epic blend of full-service and focused hotels in major cities, Sonesta’s uniquely diverse portfolio of owned, managed, and franchised properties makes us everywhere you want to be. Driven by the human side of hospitality, we deliver service with passion, loyalty with purpose, and experiences that truly connect. Together We Thrive—bringing quality, value, and amazing hospitality to every guest, every stay, across 1000+ properties in eight countries and counting. Job Description Summary Sonesta Resort located in Hilton Head Island, SC is seeking a Front Desk Manager. Job Overview: Manage all aspects of the front office areas, which may include, but is not limited to guest registration, bell services, business center, telephone services, concierge services, and guest reservations to ensure guest satisfaction and maximize hotel profitability. Adhere to all brand standards and desk merchandising.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Hotel Management/Business Administration, plus 3 years Front Office/ Guest Service experience including management experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Must speak fluent English. Other languages preferred.
Frequently standing up behind the desk and front office areas.
Carrying or lifting items weighing up to 50 pounds
Handling various objects
Use a keyboard to operate various property management and reservations systems, etc.
Communication skills are utilized a significant amount of time when interacting with others; demonstrated ability to interact with guests, employees and third parties that reflects highly on the hotel, the brand and the company.
Reading and writing abilities are utilized often when completing paperwork and management reports, interpreting results, giving and receiving instructions, and training.
Mathematical skills, including basic math, budgeting, profit/loss concepts, percentages, and variances are utilized frequently.
Problem solving, reasoning, motivating, organizational and training abilities are used often.
Ability to travel to attend workshops, specialized training and/or certifications, etc.
May be required to work nights, weekends, and/or holidays.

Responsibilities

Manage day-to-day operations and assignments of the front office staff; schedule, plan, and assign work.
Develop and communicate departmental strategies and goals.
Communicate and enforce policies and procedures.
Recommend and/or initiate salary, disciplinary, or other staffing/human resources-related actions in accordance with company rules and policies.
Alert management of potentially serious issues.
Ensure all staff is properly trained on systems, security and cash handling procedures, and service standards and have the tools and equipment needed to effectively carry out their job functions.
Monitor front office staff to ensure guests receive prompt, professional attention and personal recognition.
Ensure guests are greeted upon arrival.
Respond appropriately to guest complaints.
Implement appropriate service recovery guidelines in order to ensure total guest satisfaction.
Schedule and regularly conduct routine inspections of the front office and public areas to ensure the appearance of such areas reflects highly on the hotel, brand, and company.
Develop action plans to correct any deficiencies.
Analyze guest satisfaction data, develop, and implement plans to achieve established goals related to guest satisfaction scores, front desk activities, Travel Pass enrollments, etc.
Achieve budgeted revenues, control labor costs & expenses, and maximize profitability within all areas of the front office.
Participate in the preparation of the annual departmental operating budget and financial plans which support the overall objectives of the hotel.
Maintain procedures for security of monies, credit and financial transactions, and guest security.
Check billing instructions and guest credit for compliance with hotel credit policy.
Establish, implement, and maintain training and procedures for PBX to serve as a central communications point during emergency/crisis situations; develop and maintain relationships with local fire, police and emergency personnel.
Assist in managing hotel revenue generation and maximization through full utilization of company systems, business processes and specifications.
Promote teamwork and quality service through daily communication and coordination with other departments. Key departmental contacts include Accounting, Revenue management, Sales and Marketing, Catering, Food and Beverage, Housekeeping, and maintenance.
Interact with outside contacts: Guests- to ensure their total satisfaction Regulatory agencies-regarding safety and emergency matters Other contacts as needed (professional organizations and/or community groups)
Perform other duties as assigned.
May serve as “Manager on Duty” as required.