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Maitre d'Hotel

Maitre d's oversee the service of food and beverages to guests in restaurants, hotels, cafes and other eating places. They are in charge of checking reservations, greeting guests, supervising waiters and waitresses, and checking bills.

 

Tasks & duties

Maitre d's may do some or all of the following:

  • receive and confirm reservations
  • ensure the restaurant is fully staffed
  • supervise the training of new staff
  • supervise waiters, waitresses and wine stewards
  • liaise with kitchen staff to see what specials are available and if there are any changes to the menu
  • collect linen and ensure the restaurant tables are set correctly
  • greet guests and find out how many there are
  • seat guests at their table and offer and serve drinks
  • receive comments from customers about any aspect of the restaurant or service
  • deal with any problems that may arise
  • check bills
  • order stock
  • organise the clean-up and closing of the restaurant

 

Depending on the size of the restaurant, maitres d'hotel may also be involved in cashing up, balancing the books and other accounts work.

 

Skills & knowledge

Maitre d's need to have:

  • waiting skills
  • knowledge of table service and menu items
  • barista (coffee-making) skills
  • communication and people skills
  • leadership ability
  • good listening skills
  • time management skills
  • planning and organisational skills
  • problem-solving skills
  • computer skills

 

Entry requirements

There are no specific entry requirements to become a maitre d'. 

If you are working on licensed premises you may be required to hold a General Manager's Certificate. To apply for this, you must be over 18 years old and hold a Licence Controller Qualification (LCQ), which is administered by the Hospitality Standards Institute.

 

Tertiary education

There are no specific tertiary education requirements for becoming a maitre d'; however, a National Certificate in Hospitality may be useful.

 

Training on the job

Skills are gained on the job. Maitre d's can work towards a National Certificate in Hospitality. They may also attend wine and food courses run by suppliers.

 

Useful experience

Useful experience for maitre d's includes any work in the hospitality, tourism or retail industries such as waiting or working in a restaurant.

 

Related courses

Food and Beverage Service
Hospitality
Hospitality Management

 

For more information, please refer to Career Services.

 

Sponsors include

Crowne Plaza Hotel Christchurch

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