Head Waiter - InterContinental Riyadh

Role Overview

Head Waiter at InterContinental Riyadh, a luxury hospitality operation managed by Fa Evax Saasfaprod1. The role leads service delivery across breakfast, lunch, dinner, buffet and à la carte operations.

Role Purpose

Lead assigned restaurant sections with strong floor presence and guest engagement, ensuring consistent IHG service standards, accurate order execution, revenue targets and food safety compliance throughout all service periods.

Key Responsibilities

Service Leadership & Operations

• Lead assigned restaurant sections during breakfast, lunch, dinner, buffet and à la carte operations.
• Ensure all tables, buffet and service stations are fully prepared before service.
• Allocate and coordinate waiters within the assigned section as directed by the Supervisor.
• Maintain a strong floor presence and actively engage with guests.
• Ensure orders are taken accurately and delivered efficiently.
• Ensure correct use of POS, billing and payment procedures.

Guest Experience & Revenue

• Ensure consistent IHG service standards and sequence of service.
• Coordinate closely with Culinary regarding guest requests, dietary requirements and buffet replenishment.
• Support achievement of revenue, average check and upselling targets.
• Recognize VIPs, returning guests and special occasions and ensure appropriate service.

Issue Management & Reporting

• Handle initial guest concerns and immediately escalate serious complaints to the Supervisor or Restaurant Manager.
• Report operational, maintenance and service issues immediately.

Shift Leadership

• Take responsibility for the shift or assigned area in the absence of the F&B Supervisor when required.

Team Support & Training

• Lead by example and support colleagues throughout the service.
• Assist with daily briefings and ensure the team understands operational priorities.
• Support training of waiters on IHG service standards, sequence of service, menu knowledge, beverages, allergens, upselling and guest engagement.
• Support new colleagues during their orientation and on-the-job training.
• Participate in menu tastings and product knowledge sessions.
• Attend and actively participate in daily briefings, departmental meetings and all scheduled training sessions.

Food Safety, Hygiene & Compliance

• Follow HACCP, hotel food safety standards and Saudi Arabian regulations.
• Maintain restaurant, buffet and service station cleanliness throughout the shift.
• Follow allergen, food temperature and hygiene procedures.
• Maintain required personal hygiene, grooming and uniform standards.
• Complete assigned operational and hygiene checklists.
• Report maintenance, hygiene and safety concerns immediately.
• Keep the restaurant inspection-ready for internal audits, local authority and external inspections.

Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum 2 years' experience in luxury hotels, reputable restaurants, buffet or à la carte service.
• Previous experience as a Senior Waiter, Captain or similar position.
• Experience in All Day Dining, buffet and à la carte service.
• Good menu, beverage, POS and food safety knowledge.
• Previous IHG, luxury hotel or GCC experience preferred.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong guest service and communication skills.
• Good English communication skills; Arabic is an advantage.