Beverage Manager

Job Description :

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Bar Director to oversee all bar-related operations, including staffing, inventory management, customer service, financial management and legal compliance for two of our upscale, lakeside dining establishments. The Bar Director must be a strong leader and a detail-driven team manager that is equally skilled in the human, operational and financial aspects of the business. The selected individual will be a self-starter, innovative thinker, strong communicator, team player and a hard worker that is willing and able to take ownership of all aspects of the bars’ operations at two side-by-side restaurants. This position is an important component of the management team and will be responsible for the successful management of all aspects of the bars at the restaurants. This role requires an individual with high standards relative to drink innovation and preparation, service quality and the nurturing of a caring team culture, all directed at creating a great dining experience for our customers.

Our Organization :

The Deep Creek Restaurant Group encompasses four distinct establishments, all of which have a strong local and regional brand after decades of successful management and service excellence. The organization’s brand is directly related to its culture of inclusion, service, learning, employee development and yes, having a little fun as a team along with the hard work. This position is for Bar Director for two of our lakeside establishments that features a strong mix of location, handcrafted beverages and a food menu that appeals to regular diners and visitors alike. Unique to this organization is a seasoned, successful owner recognized for her passion for the community and her employees’ welfare and success, a location in the beautiful mountains of Western Maryland and a chance to work as part of a seasoned, dedicated team of professionals at various levels of development.

Responsibilities :

1.       Team Leadership, management and Development : Recruit, hire, train, motivate and supervise bartenders, barbacks, and other bar staff, fostering a collaborative and positive work environment. Provide guidance, feedback and support to enhance team culture and performance. Schedule staff shifts, manage payroll and address development and performance issues. Foster a positive and cohesive work environment within the bar team and with other staff and managers. Provide ongoing training and development opportunities to staff while fostering a customer-focused culture and one of continuous improvement.

2.       Customer Service and Quality : Ensure high-quality customer service by setting and managing to customer-driven service standards. Address customer complaints or concerns promptly and professionally, while also using as examples to build staff awareness and commitment to service quality. Interact with customers to build rapport and gather market insight and actionable feedback. Meet customer and organizational requirements for quality products and experiences. Look for opportunities to improve and promote quality, including use of customer and peer feedback.

3.       Inventory Management : Monitor and control beverage inventory, including ordering, receiving and stocking. Implement cost-management strategies, including the use of reports and technology, to attain target margins and to minimize waste and theft.

4.       Menu Development : Create and update beverage menus, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, that cater to our target audience, taking into account profitability, seasonality, and market trends. Collaborate with bartenders to include their ideas and input in new cocktails and drink specials. Ensure pricing is competitive, profitable and aligns with unit budgets and plans.

5.       Compliance : Ensure the bar complies with all applicable laws and regulations related to alcohol service, health and safety. Stay informed about changes in licensing, compliance and regulations and train staff on responsible, compliant alcohol service.

6.       Marketing and Promotion : Collaborate with owner and other members of management, including internal marketing resources, to develop, plan, execute and track strategies to attract and retain satisfied customers. Plan and organize special events, promotions and entertainment. Work with the marketing team to maintain an active, effective presence on social media platforms.

7.       Financial Management : Monitor and manage the bar’s budget, including revenue, profit margins and expenses. Suggest opportunities to enhance financial performance, as appropriate. Implement cost control measures to maximize profitability. Prepare and analyze financial and operational reports using available systems and other means.

8.       Maintenance and Safety : Work to make safety and cleanliness key components of the bar culture and ensure the bar area is clean, safe and well maintained at all times. Address maintenance issues promptly, with follow-up as needed. Implement safety protocols and conduct staff training on safety procedures.

9.       Supervisory Responsibilities : D irectly supervise all employees in the bar, including shift supervisors and all bar staff. Carry out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the company’s policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include hiring, firing, training, planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.

10.   Problem Solving : Identify and resolve problems in a timely manner, often “on-the-fly” and without owner / COO consultation. Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; develops alternative solutions; works well in group problem solving situations. Uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics.

Requirements :

• Proven, successful experience in bar management or a similar role, in a fast-paced, customer-driven organization
• Strong knowledge of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including market trends and customer preferences
• Excellent leadership, motivation and communication skills to effectively manage and inspire the bar team at two locations
• A passion for success, performance and delivering a consistent customer experience and positive team culture
• Desire and ability to take complete ownership of the bar and all its working parts, outputs and success
• Knowledge of, and commitment to, relevant laws, regulations and organizational policies and procedures
• Budgeting and financial management skills, including the effective use of internal systems and reports
• Creativity in menu development, promotions and special events
• Ability to adapt to changing needs, solve problems in a timely manner and remain calm under pressure
• Capable of working in a fast-paced, physically demanding environment requiring standing, walking, bending, kneeling and lifting up to 50 pounds
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and holidays

Work Environment :

The work environment characteristics described above are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually high. Deep Creek Restaurant Group reserves the right to change or amend the Bar Manager’s job description at any time.

It is the policy of Deep Creek Restaurant Group not to discriminate against any applicant for employment, or any employee because of age, color, sex, disability, national origin, race, religion, or veteran status. We support both the letter and spirit of Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO).

If you are a dedicated professional with a passion for people and a positive culture of creating exceptional experiences for customers, we invite you to apply for this rewarding position. Join our team and contribute to our mission of delivering memorable and positive customer experiences.