Restaurant Supervisor

The Big Cat Sanctuary Kent Closing date for applications is: 25th Oct 2026 Contact: Lisa Pressland (lisa@thebigcatsanctuary.org) Sector: Hospitality/Catering Type: Paid Contract type: Full-time Salary: £29,000–£31,500 PA dependent on experience Restaurant Supervisor Full-Time, Permanent (40 hours per week, 5 over 7 days) Location: On-site at The Big Cat Sanctuary, Headcorn, Kent Salary: £29,000–£31,500 PA dependent on experience The Big Cat Sanctuary is one of the UK's most remarkable conservation destinations. Our guests enjoy unique dining and overnight experiences in an intimate setting, where attentive, personalised service and attention to detail really matter. We are looking for an enthusiastic and dependable Restaurant Supervisor to support our Restaurant Manager and lead the front-of-house team through daily service. This is a hands-on role where you will be a trusted presence on the floor, setting the standard for the team and ensuring every guest receives a warm and memorable experience. When the Restaurant Manager is not on site, you will be the senior front-of-house lead. What You'll Be Doing

• Supporting the smooth running of breakfast, lunch, dinner, afternoon tea, private dining and events
• Leading and directing the team during service, ensuring responsibilities are clear and standards are maintained
• Opening and closing the restaurant and overseeing pre-service preparation and handovers
• Managing floor layouts, table assignments and service flow
• Running team briefings covering menus, allergens, guest requirements and service priorities
• Working closely with the kitchen team to ensure accurate and timely service
• Maintaining excellent standards of presentation, cleanliness and organisation
• Supporting the induction and day-to-day development of team members
• Responding professionally to guest feedback and resolving minor concerns
• Supporting stock checks, equipment inspections and the accurate use of EPOS and reservation systems What We're Looking For
• Front-of-house experience within a premium, fine-dining or luxury hospitality environment
• Previous supervisory or senior front-of-house experience, whether formal or informal
• The confidence to lead a team calmly and fairly while maintaining high standards
• Excellent communication skills and a genuine commitment to personalised guest service
• A proactive approach and strong attention to detail
• A full, clean driving licence and access to your own vehicle, as the Sanctuary is not accessible by public transport
• Eligibility to live and work in the UK Wine knowledge or a WSET qualification, experience of private dining and events, and familiarity with EPOS or reservation systems would be an advantage. Working pattern This role is generally worked Thursday to Monday, across five consecutive eight-hour shifts between 07.00 and 22.00. Why Join Us?
• 28 days' paid annual leave, with Christmas Day off as standard
• Enhanced family leave
• Full uniform provided
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Staff discounts and free access to participating UK and European zoos and collections
• Opportunities to develop within our Hospitality Team
• Regular team gatherings and celebrations
• The opportunity to take part in our Conservation Award and visit one of our supported conservation projects Apply For This Job How to Apply Please send your CV and a covering letter to jobs@thebigcatsanctuary.org stating the reference Restaurant Supervisor in the email title. Closing Date: Sunday 25th October 2026