Guest Services Supervisor – Abu Dhabi

We are recruiting a Guest Services Supervisor for a private VIP client. This is a luxury hospitality role delivered onboard a private yacht based in Abu Dhabi. Previous yachting experience is not required: we welcome candidates from five-star hotels, resorts, cruise lines, private residences and VIP service backgrounds. In-person interviews will be held in the Philippines in November 2026, in Manila and Cebu.

Location: Abu Dhabi

Industry: Luxury Hospitality / VIP Client Services

Reports to: Guest Services Manager

Employment type: Full-time

JOB PURPOSE

To supervise and monitor the guest services team, assess staff competency and efficiency, and ensure the VIP client and their guests receive the highest level of hospitality at all times.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

People

• Develop and embed a culture of customer focus and performance management to drive high-quality, continuously improving service.

• Ensure regular and effective communication with other departments.

• Ensure data protection, security and confidentiality practices follow best practice and that policies are effectively implemented.

• Develop, continuously improve and implement the approach to risk management.

• Maintain positive, professional relationships with colleagues, partners and guests.

Operations

• Facilitate seamless, effective and timely service for the VIP client and their guests.

• Schedule staffing to demand and ensure adequate coverage at all times.

• Ensure all front-line staff are well groomed, trained and receive cross-cultural awareness training.

• Supervise the daily operations of the VIP guest services team.

• Ensure the cleanliness and upkeep of all guest areas, and track the condition of all assets and equipment.

• Plan, assist and manage unplanned or short-notice events.

• Keep records of guest movements and report them to management daily.

• Report incidents to senior management and record them in logbooks; ensure proper handover and takeover of duty.

• Direct the delivery of products and services to the standards set by management.

• Ensure guest movements are handled efficiently and sensitively without compromising safety and security.

• Ensure all client requests for handling guests are met.

• Act as protocol liaison for VIP/VVIP guest arrangements.

• Coordinate with relevant authorities and service providers so guest arrangements are completed with minimal delay.

• Supervise baggage handling, assisting guests and ensuring belongings are delivered promptly and with care.

• Maintain thorough knowledge of all emergency procedures; act to correct hazardous situations and notify management of potential dangers.

• Ensure staff, equipment and resources are ready for emergencies, and keep proper records during any emergency.

• Liaise with the client's representatives to coordinate arrangements and requests.

• Evaluate the effectiveness of guest service and protocol activities and recommend improvements.

• Perform other duties as directed by management.

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

• Effective performance of the guest services team.

• Improvement of internal guest services processes.

• Efficiency of internal processes and quality of service to stakeholders.

• Compliance with policies, procedures and safety standards.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• Minimum 3 years experience in VIP guest services, luxury hospitality, yachting, private aviation or a similar premium service environment, including supervisory responsibility.

• Diploma-level education in hospitality or a related field preferred.

• Strong knowledge of customer service etiquette and VIP protocol.

• A fully guest-focused approach.

• Excellent command of English.

• Strong planning, organising and coordination skills.

• Experience developing and implementing policies and procedures.

• Meticulous attention to detail, strong commitment and a drive to keep developing.

• Previous yachting experience is not required. Willingness to complete any required maritime safety training (e.g. STCW basic safety) is essential.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Work is onboard a private yacht based in Abu Dhabi and may include travel with the client.

• Flexible working hours according to the client's schedule and operational needs.

• Subject to background checks and applicable employment requirements.

INTERVIEW & APPLICATION PROCESS

1. In-person interviews will take place in Manila and Cebu in November 2026. Please apply only if you can attend an interview in one of these cities.

2. Apply with your updated CV. All applications go through a first screening.

3. If you pass the first screening, our local recruitment agent in the Philippines will contact you to arrange your in-person interview.

4. No placement or recruitment fees are charged to candidates at any stage.

Guest Services Supervisor Abu Dhabi, UAE