About Soul Mama
At Soul Mama, we are all about bringing soulful experiences to life through exceptional
food, world-class live music and vibrant culture. Our mission is simple: to create
unforgettable experiences that nourish both the body and soul.
As one of London's fastest-growing live music venue and restaurant brands, we pride
ourselves on creating high-energy spaces where music, community and hospitality
come together.
Our Bar Manager plays a pivotal role in creating memorable guest experiences by
leading an exceptional bar operation that delivers outstanding drinks, outstanding
service and an atmosphere that reflects the energy and creativity of Soul Mama.
Job Overview
The Bar Manager is responsible for leading the day-to-day operation of the bar, ensuring
exceptional guest experiences, operational excellence and commercial performance
across all beverage service.
This is a hands-on leadership role where you will manage the bar team, maintain
exceptional service standards, oversee stock control and beverage profitability, and
ensure compliance with licensing and food safety legislation. You will work closely with
the Restaurant Manager, Events team and wider management team to ensure seamless
service across restaurant dining, live performances and private events.
Soul Mama LimitedKey Responsibilities
Bar Operations & Service Leadership
Lead the daily operation of the bar, ensuring exceptional speed, quality and
consistency of beverage service throughout every shift. Maintain outstanding
presentation standards across the bar while ensuring staffing levels, service flow and
operational readiness meet the demands of the business. Take ownership of opening
and closing procedures, daily operational checks and the overall performance of the
department.
Guest Experience
Lead by example in delivering exceptional hospitality, creating a welcoming
atmosphere and building positive relationships with guests. Ensure the bar team
provides knowledgeable recommendations across cocktails, wines, beers and
premium spirits while consistently delivering outstanding service. Resolve guest
concerns professionally and ensure complaints are handled promptly and effectively.
Team Leadership & Development
Recruit, train, coach and develop the bar team to deliver consistently high standards of
service and product knowledge. Conduct regular team briefings, performance reviews
and coaching sessions while creating a positive, accountable and supportive working
culture. Monitor attendance, punctuality and performance, addressing concerns in line
with company procedures.
Beverage Management & Commercial Performance
Take ownership of beverage GP, stock control and departmental profitability. Manage
ordering, supplier relationships, stock rotation and inventory while minimising waste
and reducing stock variances. Analyse beverage sales, identify commercial
opportunities and implement initiatives that increase revenue and improve guest
satisfaction. Support the development of cocktail menus, seasonal drinks and
promotional activity that aligns with the Soul Mama brand.
Live Events & Venue Operations
Work closely with the Restaurant Manager, Events team and Production department to
deliver seamless beverage service during live performances, brunches and private
events. Ensure the bar is fully prepared for each event, adapting staffing and operations
to meet business demands while maintaining excellent service standards throughout.
Health, Safety & Compliance
Ensure the bar operates in full compliance with licensing legislation, Health & Safety
requirements and food safety regulations. Maintain high standards of cleanliness,
hygiene and organisation while ensuring all operational documentation, cleaning
Soul Mama Limitedschedules and compliance records are completed accurately. Promote responsible
alcohol service, Challenge 25 procedures and best practice throughout the team.
Communication & Business Support
Collaborate with the General Manager, Restaurant Manager and wider leadership team
to ensure effective communication across all departments. Attend management
meetings, contribute to operational planning and support continuous improvements
that enhance guest experience, team performance and commercial success.
Skills & Experience
Minimum two years' experience in a bar management or senior bar supervisory role
within a busy hospitality environment. Demonstrable leadership experience with the
ability to motivate, coach and develop high-performing teams. Strong knowledge of
cocktails, wines, premium spirits and beverage trends together with experience
managing beverage GP, stock control and supplier relationships. Excellent
communication, organisational and problem-solving skills with the ability to make
confident operational decisions in a fast-paced environment. Flexible to work evenings,
weekends and live events.
Core Competencies
- Leadership and accountability
- Guest experience focus
- Commercial awareness
- Team development and coaching
- Excellent communication
- Organisation and time management
- Decision-making under pressure
- Beverage knowledge
- Attention to detail
- Professionalism
- Commitment to Soul Mama standards
Essential Requirements
- Previous bar leadership or management experience.
- Strong knowledge of cocktail preparation, premium beverages and bar
operations.
- Personal Licence holder or willingness to obtain one.
- Level 2 Food Safety qualification.
- Full-time availability, including evenings, weekends and live events.
Soul Mama LimitedDesirable but not essential
- Experience within a premium restaurant or live music venue.
- Experience creating cocktail menus and seasonal beverage programmes.
- WSET or recognised bartending qualification.
- Experience managing beverage budgets and supplier negotiations.
- First Aid at Work qualification.
Why Join Soul Mama?
You will be joining one of London's most exciting cultural venues, where exceptional
food, live music and community come together to create unforgettable experiences.
As Soul Mama continues to grow, we are committed to developing our leaders and
creating opportunities for progression across our expanding venues.
At Soul Mama, we do not just serve drinks; we create experiences. If you are passionate
about leadership, creativity and delivering exceptional hospitality, we would love to
welcome you to the Soul Mama team.
Pay: Up to £38,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
Experience:
- Bar management: 3 years (preferred)
- Bartending: 3 years (required)
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
