Job Overview
We are looking for an experienced, motivated and hands-on Bar Manager to lead the day-to-day operation of our premium cocktail bar.
This role is ideal for someone with a passion for hospitality who thrives in a fast-paced environment and takes pride in delivering exceptional customer experiences. You will be responsible for leading the team, maintaining consistently high operational standards, driving sales, managing stock and labour costs, and ensuring the venue operates efficiently and profitably.
As Bar Manager, you will be expected to lead by example, creating a positive and professional working culture while ensuring every customer receives outstanding service. You will have the confidence to make decisions, resolve issues quickly, motivate your team and maintain high standards across every aspect of the business.
This is a hands-on management position where you will spend time both on the floor leading service and behind the scenes managing the operational performance of the venue.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Team Management
- Lead, motivate and inspire the bar team to consistently deliver exceptional customer service.
- Recruit, induct, train and develop new team members.
- Conduct regular training sessions to improve product knowledge, cocktail standards and customer service.
- Manage staff performance through coaching, regular feedback and performance reviews.
- Foster a positive, professional and respectful working environment.
- Manage disciplinary matters fairly and professionally when required.
Daily Operations
- Oversee the day-to-day running of the venue.
- Ensure every shift operates efficiently and professionally.
- Lead service during busy trading periods.
- Ensure opening and closing procedures are completed correctly.
- Maintain high standards of cleanliness, presentation and organisation throughout the venue.
- Ensure all equipment is maintained and faults are reported promptly.
Customer Experience
- Deliver an outstanding guest experience from arrival to departure.
- Build relationships with regular customers.
- Professionally resolve customer complaints and service issues.
- Monitor customer feedback and implement improvements where necessary.
- Maintain the atmosphere, music, lighting and overall presentation of the venue.
Financial & Commercial Performance
- Manage labour costs through effective rota planning.
- Control wage budgets while ensuring excellent service levels.
- Monitor daily, weekly and monthly sales performance.
- Maximise revenue through upselling and team coaching.
- Work to achieve agreed sales and profitability targets.
- Support the development of promotions and events to drive business.
Stock Control
- Manage stock ordering and supplier relationships.
- Complete regular stock counts and investigate discrepancies.
- Minimise wastage through effective stock rotation and portion control.
- Monitor gross profit margins and beverage costs.
- Ensure deliveries are checked, recorded and stored correctly.
Compliance & Health & Safety
- Ensure compliance with licensing legislation.
- Maintain food safety and hygiene standards.
- Ensure Health & Safety policies are followed by all team members.
- Conduct regular venue safety checks.
- Ensure all staff comply with Challenge 25 and responsible alcohol retailing procedures.
- Maintain accurate operational records where required.
Administration
- Prepare staff rotas.
- Manage holiday requests and staff availability.
- Complete daily reports and operational paperwork.
- Monitor staffing levels based on expected trade.
- Attend management meetings and provide operational feedback.
Person Specification
The successful candidate will have:
- Previous experience managing a busy cocktail bar, premium bar or hospitality venue.
- Strong leadership and people management skills.
- Excellent communication and organisational abilities.
- Experience managing stock, labour costs and day-to-day operations.
- A strong understanding of cocktails, premium drinks and customer service.
- The ability to remain calm and make effective decisions under pressure.
- A hands-on leadership style with excellent attention to detail.
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and bank holidays.
- A Personal Licence (preferred but not essential).
What We Offer
- Competitive hourly rate.
- Full-time permanent position (45 hours per week).
- Opportunity to help shape and grow an exciting premium venue.
- Supportive and professional working environment.
- Staff discounts and benefits.
- Career progression opportunities for the right candidate.
If you are passionate about hospitality, take pride in leading high-performing teams and are committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences, we would love to hear from you.
Pay: £18.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
Work Location: In person
