Job Purpose
The Assistant Food & Beverage Manager – Conferences & Events supports the Conference & Banqueting Manager in the delivery of exceptional corporate events, conferences, and weddings, with a strong emphasis on beverage excellence and revenue growth. This role plays a key part in driving beverage upselling strategies across bars and event service while coordinating closely with the Beverage Manager to maintain standards, training, and product knowledge.
Reporting & Team Structure
- Direct Line Management: Conference & Banqueting Assistants
- Operational Responsibility: Bartenders and Wine Waiters (in collaboration with the Beverage Manager)
- Dotted Line Reporting: Beverage Manager for beverage standards, training, and product development
Key Responsibilities
Event Operations & Service Delivery
- Support the Conference & Banqueting Manager in the planning and execution of all conferences, corporate events, and weddings
- Oversee on-the-floor event operations, ensuring smooth service flow and adherence to event specifications
- Act as a senior operational presence during events, leading teams and resolving issues in real time
Beverage Leadership & Upselling
- Drive proactive upselling of beverage options including premium wine selections, drinks receptions, cocktail packages, and upgraded bar offerings
- Coach Conference & Banqueting Assistants, Bartenders, and Wine Waiters on confident beverage recommendations and guest engagement
- Ensure beverage service enhances the overall guest experience and maximizes revenue opportunities
- Support tastings, client meetings, and event briefings with a strong focus on beverage storytelling and value
Team Management & Development
- Line manage Conference & Banqueting Assistants, including training, scheduling, performance management, and development
- Provide day-to-day leadership and operational direction to Bartenders and Wine Waiters in alignment with the Beverage Manager
- Promote a culture of professionalism, product knowledge, and sales confidence across all event service teams
Collaboration with Beverage Manager
- Work closely with the Beverage Manager to ensure beverage menus, pricing, and standards are effectively implemented at events
- Support training initiatives related to wines, spirits, cocktails, and responsible alcohol service
- Provide feedback on event performance, guest preferences, and sales trends
Financial & Commercial Focus
- Support the achievement of beverage revenue targets and margin controls
- Monitor stock usage, wastage, and bar setup efficiency during events
- Identify opportunities to increase average spend per guest through creative beverage solutions
Guest Experience
- Deliver warm, knowledgeable, and attentive service at all times
- Actively engage with guests and clients to enhance satisfaction and encourage repeat business
- Handle feedback and service recovery with professionalism and confidence
Health, Safety & Compliance
- Ensure all beverage service complies with licensing laws, health & safety, and responsible alcohol service standards
- Maintain safe, clean, and well-presented bar and service areas
Skills & Experience
Essential
- Previous experience in a supervisory or assistant management role within Food & Beverage or Events
- Strong knowledge of wines, spirits, cocktails, and bar operations
- Proven ability to drive beverage upselling and team sales performance
- Confident leader with strong communication and coaching skills
- Ability to work flexibly, including evenings and weekends
Desirable
- Experience in conferences, corporate events, or wedding environments
- Formal beverage or wine qualifications (e.g., WSET or equivalent)
- Experience working within a structured or matrix reporting environment
Personal Attributes
- Commercially minded with a passion for beverage excellence
- Approachable, polished, and confident in guest-facing situations
- Detail-oriented with strong organisational skills
- Calm and decisive in fast-paced, high-pressure environments
Pay: £30,420.00 per year
Work Location: In person
