Description

The front desk in hotels is usually the primary contact point for guests, and is the location where guests can solve issues or ask questions. It is the responsibility of the supervisor at the front desk to ensure the complete satisfaction of guests by addressing their needs when they occur, and by coordinating the housekeeping as well as cooking and valet staff (if appropriate) to ensure the efficient running of the guest services. In addition the supervisor of the front office typically handles a variety of operational tasks including staff scheduling, keeping records and managing cash.

Since the supervisor of the front office is accountable for the satisfaction of guests and satisfaction, they should have strong interpersonal skills and the ability to tackle issues and also have the managerial skills required to manage and coordinate teams simultaneously. The supervisor of the front office typically has to be present for the majority of their shift, and is often shifted about to supervise staff and attend to the needs of guests. The supervisor of the front office typically is employed during business hours of the day however some establishments might have night-time supervisors too.

The requirements for front desk supervisors typically include the graduation certificate from a high school or similar, However, some employers might require the certification of a hotel operator as well as an associate's level. In hotels with larger rooms generally, it is preferred to have an undergraduate degree in hotel management, hospitality or another related area. Experience in a hospitality setting is a plus too.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a Front Office Supervisor with 3-6 years of experience in the United Kingdom, your main responsibilities include:

  • Oversee daily operations of the front office, ensuring smooth check-in and check-out processes and maintaining high levels of customer service. Manage front desk operations, including handling guest inquiries, resolving issues, and ensuring a positive guest experience.
  • Supervise and train front office staff, ensuring they adhere to company policies and procedures. Provide training and guidance to front office staff, ensuring they have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their roles effectively.
  • Handle guest complaints and escalate issues as necessary to ensure guest satisfaction. Address guest concerns and complaints, taking appropriate actions to resolve issues and ensure guest satisfaction.
  • Monitor occupancy rates, room availability, and reservations to maximize revenue and occupancy levels.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For a Front Office Supervisor job role, the following qualifications are required:

  • Excellent customer service skills to ensure a positive and satisfactory experience for guests and visitors.
  • Strong organizational abilities to manage front desk operations efficiently, including reservation systems, check-ins, check-outs, and guest inquiries.
  • Leadership qualities to oversee and guide the front office team, ensuring seamless coordination and cooperation.
  • Problem-solving skills to address and resolve any issues or complaints raised by guests, prioritizing their satisfaction and comfort.

Essential Skills For Front Office Supervisor

1

Operational Support

2

Accounting

3

Customer Billing

Career Prospects

The role of a Front Office Supervisor is crucial in ensuring smooth operations and exceptional customer service. For individuals with 3-6 years of experience in the United Kingdom, here are following alternative roles to consider:

  • Front Office Manager: A position that involves overseeing the entire front office department, managing staff, ensuring guest satisfaction, and implementing procedures for efficient operations.
  • Guest Relations Manager: A role focused on delivering exceptional guest experiences, handling guest feedback and complaints, and coordinating special requests.
  • Reservation Supervisor: A position that involves managing room reservations, overseeing the reservation team, ensuring accuracy in bookings, and optimizing revenue through effective pricing and inventory management.
  • Operations Coordinator: A role that entails supporting the front office department by coordinating with other departments, managing schedules, ensuring adherence to standard operating procedures, and handling administrative tasks.

How to Learn

The role of Front Office Supervisor in the United Kingdom is expected to witness steady growth in the market. A 10-year analysis suggests a positive outlook for the job role, with increasing employment opportunities in the future. With the evolving hospitality industry and expanding businesses relying on efficient front office operations, demand for skilled Front Office Supervisors is anticipated to grow. Factors such as rising tourism, technological advancements, and customer service emphasis contribute to the promising prospects of this position. Available data points from Google highlight a progressive trend in terms of job availability, making it an optimistic career choice for individuals seeking employment in the hospitality sector.