Front of House Assistant reference: R-192459

This review provides an insightful overview of the Hotel Partner opportunity at The Odney Hotel, designed to guide prospective candidates and highlight the advantages of this unique role within the John Lewis Partnership.

The Opportunity: A Blend of Hospitality Excellence and Partnership Rewards

This role presents an exciting chance to contribute to a first-rate guest experience at The Odney Hotel, a distinguished country club hotel nestled on 130 acres along the River Thames. As a Hotel Partner, you'll be instrumental in delivering market-leading customer service, embodying the brand by being warm, friendly, and consistently providing an outstanding guest experience. Beyond the direct service aspect, you'll also play a vital role in the efficient and profitable running of the hotel, aligning your contributions with business and personal objectives.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Attractive Compensation Package: The role offers a competitive hourly rate of £12.40, with a significant addition of a Night Premium of £3.50 per hour for any time worked between 22:00 and 06:00. This premium also extends to existing Partners enrolled in Enhanced Hours Premium arrangements, providing a tangible financial incentive for those who work unsociable hours.
• Unique Work Environment: The Odney Hotel is not just a workplace; it's a destination. With its rich history, stunning location inspired by "The Wind in the Willows," and luxurious amenities including private river access, water gardens, and a wellbeing suite, this role offers a truly distinctive and inspiring setting.
• Partnership Benefits: As a John Lewis Partnership employee, you'll gain access to a wealth of benefits that extend far beyond your contractual pay. These include:
  • Generous Holiday Entitlement: 22 days of holiday, plus public and bank holidays (pro-rated for part-time hours).
  • Substantial Partnership Discount: Enjoy 25% off in John Lewis and 20% off in Waitrose (with some exclusions) after completing your earning membership period. This discount can also be shared with someone you live with.
  • Focus on Wellbeing and Work-Life Balance: The Partnership emphasizes wellbeing, offering flexible working arrangements and a market-leading equal parenthood leave policy.
  • Complimentary Meals: Free meals are provided whilst on duty for 'Live Out' roles, and for 'Live In' roles, meals are also included.
• Career Development and Belonging: Being a Partner means you are a co-owner. This ownership model fosters a strong sense of belonging, shared responsibility, and collective reward. You'll be encouraged to grow individually and as part of a team within a business that values its people and their contributions.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Shift Patterns: The role involves part-time hours (15.5 hours per week), typically comprising two mid-week shifts (either 17:00-21:00 or 18:00-22:00) and one full weekend day (7.5 hours on either Saturday or Sunday). Candidates should assess if these hours align with their personal commitments and career aspirations.
• Essential Skills: While hospitality experience is desirable, the role requires self-motivation, industriousness, basic IT and POS system knowledge, and excellent communication skills. Candidates should ensure they can demonstrate these proficiencies.
• Location: The role is based at The Odney Hotel in Cookham, Berkshire. Candidates should consider the commute and if this beautiful, somewhat remote location suits their lifestyle.
• Pre-Employment Vetting: Be aware that some roles may be subject to pre-employment vetting, which could include DBS checks. Prompt completion of any required documents is encouraged to avoid delays in the recruitment process.
• Application Process: The application involves a CV upload and subsequent questions. It's advisable to apply early, as vacancies can close before the advertised closing date if a high volume of applications is received.

Guidance for Career Path:

This opportunity is ideal for individuals passionate about customer service and looking to enter or advance within the hospitality sector. The remuneration structure, particularly the night premium, makes it attractive for those seeking to supplement their income. Furthermore, the extensive benefits package offered by the John Lewis Partnership provides a stable and rewarding foundation for long-term career growth and personal development. The emphasis on partnership and co-ownership offers a unique pathway to not just a job, but a stake in a successful and ethical business. Candidates with strong interpersonal skills and a proactive attitude will thrive in this environment, gaining valuable experience in a prestigious hotel setting.