Bar Manager

Job Summary The Bar Manager is an experienced, hospitality‑driven leader who runs the bar program with energy, precision, and a genuine passion for the craft. This role is ideal for someone who combines deep spirits and cocktail knowledge with the operational discipline required to run a high‑performing bar program. You'll oversee bartender training, drink quality and consistency, service flow, inventory, and the overall guest experience. Key ResponsibilitiesDaily Operations Lead all day‑to‑day bar operations to ensure smooth, efficient, and consistent service. Maintain high standards for cocktail preparation, presentation, and recipe execution. Manage inventory, ordering, and cost control for spirits, wine, beer, mixers, and related bar supplies. Ensure compliance with all alcohol service, food safety, sanitation, health regulations, workplace safety, and labor laws, including responsible beverage service (RBS) requirements. Lead by example, upholding speed, efficiency, and service etiquette. Collaborate with leads, management, culinary and bakery teams to support cross‑department operations and cohesive service flow. Team Leadership & Development Recruit, train, mentor and develop bartenders and other bar staff. Provide ongoing coaching on spirits knowledge, cocktail technique, bar equipment use, and guest engagement. Build and manage staff schedules to balance labor efficiency with service needs. Foster a positive, collaborative, and hospitality‑driven team culture. Guest Experience Create a welcoming hospitality‑forward environment that reflects our brand values, anticipates the guests' needs and maximizes the return of all guests. Resolve guest concerns with professionalism and care. Monitor service flow and adjust staffing or processes to maintain speed, accuracy, and quality. Bar Program Excellence Oversee cocktail consistency, batching, and overall spirits, wine, and beer program quality. Develop and refresh seasonal cocktail menus and drive menu innovation. Maintain strong relationships with distributors, breweries, wineries, and suppliers to ensure product quality and favorable terms. Financial & Business Performance Monitor sales performance and identify opportunities to grow revenue. Manage labor, pour cost, waste, and product costs to meet profitability goals. Analyze operational data and implement improvements to drive efficiency. Equipment & Maintenance Oversee maintenance and care of bar equipment, including draft systems, ice machines, glassware, and tools. Coordinate repairs and preventive maintenance to minimize downtime. Qualifications 4 years of bar or restaurant bar management experience. Strong knowledge of spirits, classic and craft cocktail technique, and bar program development. Current knowledge of responsible alcohol service practices and required certifications (e.g., RBS/TIPS, as applicable by state). Proven ability to lead and develop a team. Excellent communication, organization, and problem‑solving skills. Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, guest‑focused environment. Experience with inventory management, scheduling, and basic financial reporting. Core Competencies Passion for spirits, cocktails, hospitality, and guest experience A hands‑on leader who leads by example Operationally sharp with strong attention to detail Calm under pressure and solutions‑oriented Excited to help shape and grow a standout bar program Physical Requirements Prolonged periods of standing and walking throughout the facility. Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull items weighing up to 30 pounds. Ability to work in a fast‑paced, high‑volume bar environment with frequent interruptions. Manual dexterity to operate bar tools, glassware, and related equipment. Manager Role Expectations The Bar Manager holds a key leadership role and is expected to maintain the highest standards of professionalism, hospitality, communication, and accountability. Failure to meet these standards may result in reassignment of duties or performance review. Disclaimer This job description reflects the current scope of responsibilities and is not intended to be a comprehensive listing of all duties. Responsibilities may change at any time based on business needs, concept growth, or operational priorities.