Host/Waiter

Job Introduction

We are currently looking to add Host/ Waiter to our team at the Keeper’s House situated within the Royal Academy of Arts, London to deliver a world class guest experience. 

In this role, you will be hands-on behind the bar—mixing drinks, serving guests, keeping stock topped up, maintaining cleanliness, and following health and safety protocols. You will use upselling skills to drive sales and support the catering team to elevate the guest experience—all without any supervisory duties.

The Keeper's House is a perfect blend of art and hospitality; creating a “home away from home” for Friends of the RA, Patrons, Royal Academicians and visitors. Inside you will find a café, a member’s room and a cosy bar with its own secret garden. The walls of Keeper’s House are adorned with a revolving programme of RA Editions, presenting works for sale from Academicians and other invited artists.

Role Responsibility

Bar Operations (Hands-On):

Open and close the bar following company procedures, complete checklists

Mix a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages per company standards

Serve customers at the bar and floor, take orders, process payments via card 

Customer Engagement & Sales:

Provide friendly, helpful service, addressing inquiries, complaints, and compliments professionally 

Use product knowledge and upselling techniques 

Stock & Inventory Management:

Replenish liquor, mixers, garnishes, ice, glassware, and bar supplies proactively 

Monitor stock levels, alert management when low 

Bar Cleanliness & Maintenance:

Keep bar area clean and organized—wipe surfaces, manage spills, wash glasses, empty trash 

Perform opening/closing tasks: clean glassware, mop, tidy up, secure equipment 

Health, Safety & Compliance:

 Adhere to food safety, allergen, COSHH, HACCP, hygiene, and fire-safety regulations

Check and refuse service to minors or over-intoxicated guests, ensuring legal compliance 

Team Collaboration:

Work alongside the catering and FOH team to maintain seamless service flow and guest satisfaction

The Ideal Candidate

Customer-Centric Attitude: Polite, caring demeanour with strong communication skills 

Multitasking & Calm Under Pressure: Ability to handle high volume with focus and attention to detail 

Bar Knowledge: Familiarity with beverages and cocktails; willingness to learn more 

Physical Stamina & Dexterity: Comfortable managing tasks like lifting, standing, cleaning, and glass handling 

Hygiene & Appearance: High personal and workplace cleanliness standards at all times

Requirements:

• Minimum legal age for alcohol service
• Experience with till operations and handling cash/card transactions preferred 
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and events

Package Description

• Rate of pay for first two months is £13.85 per hour plus service charge, then £15 per hour plus service charge
• For the first two months it will be a casual contract, after that 30-hour blue contract 

About the Company

Heritage Portfolio is the sub-segment of Sodexo Live! that produces outstanding catering and event services for our cultural destinations. 

Our mantra is “Never standing still” and as we grow and flourish in the world of bespoke events and venues, we remain true to our original ethos: to provide an amazing experience that goes beyond the remarkable food we serve. Therefore we are always looking for passionate, enthusiastic and motivated individuals to join our team and take pride in the work they deliver.

At Sodexo Live! build a career where ‘everyday’ is anything but normal. Our experiences are unique, and so are our people. Bring personality, your background, and your desire for delighting others. In return we’ll give you all you need to thrive.
We Belong to a team that feels like family, ACT with purpose and be inclusive, Thrive in our career, while able to Be Live in the moment creating exceptional memories. 
 
After giving it all, you’ll return home knowing that you’ve played your part in creating a truly unforgettable moment. 
Because at Sodexo Live! we’re so much more.

 Be part of something greater

Globally Sodexo Live! contributes to the success of events such as Royal Ascot, the Tour de France, the Rugby World Cup and soon the Paris 2024 Games, and showcases exceptional venues such as the Eiffel Tower Restaurants, Bateaux Parisiens, Yachts de Paris, the Royal Academy of Arts in London, the Museo del Prado in Madrid, the Hard Rock Stadium, the Scottish National Gallery, and the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles. 

Other venues in the UK include, Fulham FC, the ACC Liverpool, and Edinburgh’s magnificent Signet Library.

Sodexo Live! is part of Sodexo which provides catering, facilities management, employee benefits and personal home services to 100 million consumers daily in 56 countries. At Sodexo we believe in the difference a day makes. That’s why we are proud to focus on people’s essential needs: we see them as key to improve the quality of life. We know that by focusing on the tangible, the real, the concrete improvements, day after day, for millions of people, we have a big impact not only on individuals but also on society and the planet. We believe it all starts with the everyday.