Head Waiter/Waitress

Head Waiter/Waitress – The Big Cat Sanctuary
Full-Time, 40 Hours per week, incl. weekends & bank holidays. Based in Kent.

Are you a people-focused hospitality professional who loves developing others to deliver exceptional dining
experiences? The Big Cat Sanctuary (BCS) is looking for a confident and inspiring Head Waiter/Waitress to
lead,  motivate, and  grow  our  front-of-house  team  — ensuring  seamless, standout  service  across breakfast,
lunch, dinner, indulgent afternoon teas, and bespoke events.
This is a role for someone who thrives on creating great experiences — not just for guests, but for the team
around them. You’ll set the tone for excellence, nurture skills and confidence in your team, and make sure
every service runs with warmth, energy, and precision.

What You’ll Be Doing:
•  Leading,  mentoring,  and  developing  your  team  to  deliver  exceptional  dining  experiences  across  every

service
Inspiring confidence, teamwork, and professional pride through hands-on support and positive leadership

•
•  Overseeing daily restaurant operations with calm efficiency and genuine care
•  Delivering attentive, personalised hospitality that makes every guest feel valued
•  Coordinating seamlessly with the kitchen and management teams to ensure smooth service from start to

finish

•  Maintaining the highest standards of presentation, cleanliness, and organisation on the floor
•  Playing a key role in supporting high-end functions, private dining, and special events
•  Contributing ideas to enhance service, menu presentation, and guest experience

What We’re Looking For:
•  A natural leader who enjoys coaching others and leading by example
•  Proven experience in a busy hospitality environment (fine dining experience is essential)
•  A passion for food, service, and creating memorable moments for guests
•  A calm, confident communicator with excellent people and organisational skills
•  Flexible and proactive, with an eye for detail and a love for teamwork
•  Proficient with Microsoft Office; EPOS knowledge an advantage
•  Flexibility to work weekends and Bank Holidays
•  Full, clean driving licence and access to own transport (BCS is not accessible by public transport)
•  Eligibility to live and work in the UK (proof required as part of the recruitment process)

Includes regular weekend/Bank Holiday work (with the opportunity for overtime or TOIL)

What to Expect in the Role
•  40 hours per week, 10 over 14 days; worked between 07.30–21.30 as straight 8-hour shifts
•  Starting salary £29,400 per annum
•
•  28 days paid holiday, plus Christmas Day off as standard
•  Access to Health Assured Employee Assistance Programme
•  Staff discounts and other benefits, including free access to UK and European zoos and collections, regular
team gatherings and celebrations, and a company Conservation Award (giving team members the chance
to travel together to one of our supported global conservation partners), enhanced family leave and more

Why Join Us?
At  The  Big  Cat  Sanctuary,  we  pride  ourselves  on  creating  experiences  that  are  as  unforgettable  as  our
residents.  You’ll  be  part  of  a  warm,  passionate  team,  delivering  excellence  in  every  plate  served  —  while
supporting a charity with a genuine conservation mission.
If you’re ready to lead with passion, inspire your team, and deliver service that truly shines  — we’d love to
hear from you.

Email alex.petkovic@thebigcatsanctuary.org for further info or submit your CV and cover letter to apply.