Head Server

Job Ref: UNI1561

Branch: Parker's Tavern

Location: Parker's Tavern, Cambridge

Salary/Benefits: Competitive Pay - £15.39 per hour

Contract type: Permanent

Hours: Full Time

Hours per week: 42.5

Posted date: 28/09/2026

Closing date: 28/10/2026

ABOUT US

University Arms is a 192-bedroom design-led Hotel situated in the heart of Cambridge, United Kingdom. Overlooking Parker’s Piece is the Hotel’s quintessentially British Restaurant and Bar Parker’s Tavern, Library Lounge, and beautiful 272 square metre wood panelled Ballroom.

Opened in 1834 as a Coaching Inn, University Arms is Cambridge’s oldest Hotel. For 180 years, the Hotel was added to, updated, and modernised in line with the age; however, it was the reopening in 2018 after a four-year £80m full renovation that really positioned the Hotel. It is now Cambridge's 'go to’ destination, alluring visitors with the promise of a sense of modern luxury.

WHAT WILL YOU BE DOING

As the evening Head Server for Parker’s Tavern, you’ll pride yourself on having excellent product knowledge in both food and wine and going above and beyond to create memorable guest experiences. You will work as part of a team to serve our Guests and create exceptional experiences and exceed expectations from breakfast right through to dinner, to ensure that every guest wants to return.

THE DUTIES

• Run the shift in the absence of the restaurant leaders.
• Deliver exceptional, personalised service to all guests
• Lead and mentor servers and runners during service
• Manage your section efficiently, ensuring smooth and polished service flow
• Take accurate orders, advise on menu items, and confidently upsell where appropriate
• Support with opening and closing duties, including floor setup and breakdown
• Maintain strong communication with the kitchen and bar teams
• Handle guest requests, feedback, and complaints with professionalism
• Ensure compliance with hygiene, safety, and service standards
• Support training, onboarding, and continuous development of the service team
• Close and cash up in the absence of the restaurant leaders.

WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR IN YOU

• Have experience as a senior server, head waiter/waitress, or section leader in a premium or luxury dining environment
• Demonstrate excellent guest engagement and communication skills
• Are confident, organised, and proactive during busy service periods
• Possess strong food, wine, and beverage knowledge (or a willingness to develop it)
• Lead by example and support the team with a positive, hands-on approach
• Pay great attention to detail and take pride in presentation and professionalism
• Are flexible to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays

THE PERKS

As well as the opportunity to work with a fantastic team in an exceptional property, the position comes with:

• Competitive salary
• Free meals on duty
• Team Member Parties
• Room and FB discounts across the Marriott portfolio
• Refer a friend – who do you know who could be interested in a new role? When they are placed, you could earn up to £400 for referring them!

RIGHT TO WORK:

In line with the requirements of UK immigration legislation, all applicants must be eligible to live and work in the UK. Documentary evidence of eligibility to work will be required from candidates as part of the recruitment process.

PAY

£12.79 per hour; plus £2.60 per hour Tronc.

Why work at University Arms and Parker’s Tavern?

We are passionate about Cambridge’s heritage, and want to share that with our guests in a context that is contemporary, thoughtful and engaging. We deliver an experience of considered modern luxury, and take pride in our work. If you are enthusiastic about your city and your work in the hospitality sector you will find working at the University Arms truly rewarding.