VIP Host

Grow with us...

Life at Starwood Hotels is based on a simple idea: the world is beautiful and we want to keep it that way. But we can’t do it alone. That’s why hiring thoughtful and inspiring Team Members and Leaders who understand that our people, collaboration, stellar service, and respect for nature are so important to us.

When guests arrive at Watr, their experience begins long before the first bite or cocktail — it begins with the welcome they receive. As a VIP Host, you play an important role in creating that first impression and setting the tone for an elevated, memorable experience.

We’re seeking a VIP Host who understands and values the importance of genuine hospitality, personalized service, and meaningful guest relationships. Our ideal VIP Host is a natural connector and brand ambassador who knows how to make guests feel recognized, welcomed, and cared for while representing the spirit of Watr and 1 Hotel Austin.

This role goes beyond the host stand. The VIP Host helps cultivate relationships with guests, hotel partners, local businesses, and community connections; supports reservations and special occasions; and works closely with the Watr team to create thoughtful VIP experiences that encourage guests to return.

About you...

- Passionate about hospitality, food & beverage, and creating memorable guest experiences, with previous experience in a similar role.
- Warm, personable, and confident building genuine relationships with guests and community partners.
- Strong understanding of guest service, reservations, and restaurant operations.
- Organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Proactive and solutions-oriented, with the ability to anticipate guest needs and take ownership of the guest experience.
- Comfortable supporting VIP reservations, special occasions, guest preferences, and personalized experiences.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- A natural networker who enjoys connecting with guests, hotel teams, concierges, and local partners.
- Comfortable with reservation systems, guest profiles, communication tools, and basic customer relationship management.
- Professional, polished, and able to represent the Watr and 1 Hotel Austin brand with confidence.
- A team player who works collaboratively with Front of House, Culinary, Hotel, and People Operations teams.
- Flexible and willing to meet the demands of a hospitality operation, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

What you’ll do...

- Welcome and connect with guests in a warm, genuine, and personalized way.
- Serve as a point of contact for VIP guests, special occasions, and returning guests.
- Build and maintain meaningful relationships that encourage guest loyalty and repeat visits.
- Manage and support VIP reservations, guest notes, preferences, special requests, and follow-up.
- Work closely with Watr leadership and the restaurant team to ensure VIP guests receive a seamless experience from arrival through departure.
- Communicate guest preferences and special requests to the appropriate team members.
- Support relationship-building efforts with hotel guests, concierges, local businesses, and community partners.
- Participate in outreach and networking opportunities that introduce new guests to Watr.
- Maintain an understanding of Watr’s menu, beverages, experiences, events, amenities, and the broader 1 Hotel Austin offering.
- Assist with guest seating, table readiness, guest flow, and overall Front of House operations as needed.
- Proactively identify opportunities to enhance the guest experience and resolve concerns with professionalism and care.
- Follow up with VIP and returning guests when appropriate to strengthen relationships and encourage future visits.
- Maintain a polished, professional appearance consistent with Watr and 1 Hotel Austin standards.
- Uphold all service, safety, security, confidentiality, and brand standards.
- Support opening, operating, and closing responsibilities as assigned.

About 1 Hotel Austin

At 1 Hotel Austin, we believe hospitality starts with people. Our team creates experiences that feel thoughtful, natural, and personal — helping every guest feel welcomed, connected, and at home.

At Watr, the VIP Host brings that philosophy to life through genuine relationships, thoughtful details, and a commitment to making every guest feel seen.

About us...

As a mission-driven company, our purpose is our true north, and our compass guides the way. The purpose we live by impacts the lives of our team members, drives the experiences for our guests, builds community with like-minded travelers and takes care of the planet we live in. Founded in 2006 by Barry Sternlicht, Starwood Hotels is a luxury hotel brand management company and affiliate of global private investment firm Starwood Capital Group.

Starwood Hotels is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe in a diverse, sustainable workforce with an empowered, inclusive culture. We are committed to non-discrimination on any protected basis covered under applicable law. If you require any special accommodations, please visit People Operations.