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