Beverage Manager

We are seeking a skilled, creative, and results-driven Beverage Manager oversee and enhance our beverage operations at the World Equestrian Center Ocala. This role is integral to overseeing the beverage and cocktail menus across multiple locations within our Event Center, ensuring consistency, innovation, and exceptional service quality. The Beverage Manager will play a critical role in developing and maintaining vendor partnerships and sponsorships, collaborating with both internal teams and external partners to elevate the beverage program. Additionally, this position will participate in executing and supporting special events on the property, contributing to the overall guest experience.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Oversee and manage the development and execution of the beverage and cocktail menus across multiple locations within the Event Center, focusing on creativity, quality, and distinctiveness.

• Establish and maintain strong vendor partnerships and sponsorships to enhance beverage offerings and ensure the highest quality of ingredients and supplies.

• Collaborate with department heads and beverage leaders to ensure all beverage offerings align with the World Equestrian Center’s brand and guest experience.

• Lead the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and cocktail recipes, ensuring consistency and high-quality service standards across all locations.

• Manage beverage costs and create cost-effective recipes while maintaining beverage cost matrices.

• Supervise and mentor bar staff, providing training and guidance on cocktail preparation, presentation, and adherence to company beverage standards.

• Participate in special events and large-scale operations on the property, ensuring beverage programs are executed seamlessly and contribute to the overall guest experience.

• Oversee monthly inventory checks and ensure proper rotation of stock to minimize waste, as well as manage stock levels across multiple event spaces.

• Ensure that all bars and beverage stations are clean, organized, and adhere to company policies and health/safety regulations.

• Monitor and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws related to food and beverage service, including alcohol service regulations.

• Maintain high team morale by fostering a positive and collaborative work environment that promotes guest satisfaction and service excellence.

• Regularly engage in structured training programs to further develop staff, ensuring their growth and contributing to the success of the beverage department.

• Lead by example in upholding the professional image of the F&B operation, including uniform and appearance standards.

• Create and implement proactive safety measures to reduce the risk of accidents or injuries within the beverage operations.

• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required for special events, high-demand periods, or operational needs.

Physical Requirements:

 The following physical demands are required for the position. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions:

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods, reach with arms and hands, and perform physical activities such 

as stooping, kneeling, or crouching.

• Strong communication skills in English, both verbal and written.

• Capable of engaging with colleagues and guests in a clear, professional, and courteous manner.

Qualifications, Education, Experience, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in F&B management, bartending, or a related field. 

• At least 2 years of experience in a luxury hotel or fine dining environment is preferred.

• Experience in overseeing beverage operations across multiple locations is a plus.

• Must hold ServSafe certification and Alcohol Compliance certification.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Outlook, and beverage management systems.

• Strong beverage knowledge, with experience in high-end craft cocktails, wine, and spirits, CMS Level 1 or equivalent required, CMS Level 2 or equivalent preferred. 

• Experience in vendor relations, sponsorships, or event-based beverage management is preferred.

• Exceptional leadership and communication skills with the ability to engage and inspire a diverse team.

• Ability to work effectively under pressure while maintaining attention to detail and service excellence.

The World Equestrian Center is managed by Columbus Hospitality Management, a company committed to providing quality service and memorable guest experiences in a positive and welcoming work environment. We are focused on supporting the needs of our team through our commitment to the family/work life balance and by providing development opportunities.

We are proud to be a Drug Free Workplace/EOE. All applicants will be required to submit to a background check prior to employment.