Stewarding Team Leader

Company Description

SO/ is a coveted collection of hotels, rooted in the world of fashion. Making its stylish debut on the global hotel scene in 2011, SO/ continues to command attention with its avant-garde design and creative approach to the world of luxury.

Job Description

We're looking for an experienced and dedicated **Stewarding Team Leader** to join our hospitality team in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. In this pivotal role, you will oversee the daily operations of the Stewarding Department, ensuring exceptional standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and safety across all kitchen and back-of-house areas. Reporting to the Chief Steward, you will lead a team of stewarding professionals while maintaining operational excellence and fostering a collaborative, supportive work environment that reflects our commitment to quality and continuous improvement.

**Stewarding Operations & Supervision**

• Supervise and coordinate daily stewarding operations to maintain pristine cleanliness, organization, and hygiene standards across all kitchen and service areas
• Oversee the proper washing, cleaning, and storage of dishes, glassware, utensils, pots, pans, and kitchen equipment in accordance with established protocols
• Monitor garbage disposal procedures and waste management to ensure compliance with hygiene and environmental standards
• Ensure opening and closing procedures for stewarding areas are executed consistently and thoroughly

**Equipment Management & Inventory Control**

• Manage the proper handling, care, and maintenance of all operating and kitchen equipment to minimize breakage and loss
• Assist in conducting regular inventories of operating equipment and maintain accurate records
• Monitor and optimize the usage of cleaning chemicals and supplies to reduce wastage and spoilage
• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of dishwashing equipment, cleaning procedures, and chemical safety protocols

**Hygiene, Safety & Compliance**

• Ensure strict adherence to HACCP standards, food safety regulations, and local UAE legislation
• Collaborate with the Hygiene Officer to implement, monitor, and reinforce hygiene and sanitation procedures
• Maintain compliance with relevant ISO Integrated Management Systems and quality standards
• Conduct regular safety briefings and ensure all team members follow hygiene, safety, and appearance standards consistently

**Team Leadership & Development**

• Provide hands-on supervision, coaching, and mentoring to stewarding team members during shifts
• Deliver on-the-job training and ensure team members understand and follow established standard operating procedures
• Foster a positive, inclusive team culture that encourages open communication and continuous improvement
• Participate actively in departmental meetings and training sessions to stay current with best practices

**Operational Support & Communication**

• Maintain strong working relationships with kitchen, F&B, housekeeping, and other hotel departments
• Report operational issues, guest complaints, and safety concerns promptly to management and ensure appropriate follow-up
• Provide flexible support to F&B operations and remain adaptable to departmental needs during peak periods
• Demonstrate problem-solving abilities and make decisive decisions to resolve operational challenges efficiently

**General Responsibilities**

• Maintain punctual attendance, proper uniform standards, and exemplary personal hygiene
• Comply with all hotel policies, employee handbook requirements, and Fire, Health & Safety procedures
• Undertake additional duties and special projects as assigned by the Chief Steward or Stewarding Management
• Support departmental goals and contribute to the organization's commitment to excellence and guest satisfaction

Qualifications

**Required Experience & Skills**

• Minimum 2-3 years of experience in stewarding or back-of-house operations within a hotel, resort, or similar hospitality environment
• Proven supervisory or team leader experience in a fast-paced operational setting
• Strong understanding of hygiene protocols, cleaning procedures, and safe handling of chemicals and cleaning agents
• Solid knowledge of HACCP principles and food safety standards
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to lead, motivate, and support diverse teams
• Demonstrated problem-solving and conflict resolution abilities
• Strong organizational and time management skills with attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and effectively under pressure while maintaining quality standards

**Core Competencies & Attributes**

• Professional attitude with a strong commitment to cleanliness, safety, and operational excellence
• Reliable, responsible, and team-oriented mindset with a collaborative approach
• Detail-oriented with a focus on continuous improvement and process optimization
• Resilient and adaptable, capable of managing multiple priorities and responding to changing operational needs
• Empathetic and inclusive leadership style that values transparency and open communication
• Goal-oriented with a commitment to achieving departmental objectives and organizational standards
• Efficient and decisive in decision-making while maintaining a supportive and encouraging demeanor

**Preferred Qualifications**

• Certification or formal training in food safety, HACCP, or hospitality management
• Experience with inventory management systems and equipment maintenance protocols
• Familiarity with hospitality industry standards and best practices
• Previous experience in a luxury hotel or resort environment
• Knowledge of local UAE regulations and compliance requirements in the hospitality sector