Bar Manager

Summary

The Bar Manager is responsible for developing and executing the beverage program, ensuring it aligns with the restaurant’s vision, brand, and cultural authenticity. This role focuses on strategic planning, financial oversight, supplier relations, menu innovation, and team leadership.

Description of Responsibilities 

• Develop and oversee the overall bar strategy, ensuring it complements the restaurant’s vision, culture, and guest experience.

• Establish and maintain Company’s beverage identity, ensuring consistency across locations.

• Collaborate with marketing teams to promote seasonal cocktails, beverage pairings, and special events.

• Ensure the beverage program supports the restaurant’s cultural authenticity by incorporating traditional Chinese beverage practices and innovative pairings.

• Lead the research and implementation of emerging bar trends to keep the restaurant competitive and unique.

• Manage the beverage department’s P&L, setting targets for revenue, cost control, and profitability.

• Oversee pricing strategies for cocktails, wine, and specialty drinks, ensuring competitive and profitable margins.

• Negotiate contracts with beverage suppliers, distributors, and local/international vendors to secure quality products at competitive prices.

• Monitor and optimize the cost of goods sold (COGS), ensuring efficient purchasing and minimal waste.

• Evaluate bar sales performance through data analytics and implement necessary adjustments to improve revenue.

• Design and update the beverage menu, ensuring alignment with Chinese cuisine and cultural traditions.

• Develop seasonal, signature, and culturally significant cocktails, collaborating with Mixologists and the Executive Chef.

• Ensure all bar staff are trained on beverage offerings, including Chinese tea pairings, specialty cocktails, and premium spirits.

• Work with kitchen leadership to design food and beverage pairing experiences, enhancing guest satisfaction.

• Ensure the menu reflects customer preferences, trends, and sales data, making evidence-based adjustments.

• Provide mentorship and leadership to Bar Staff ensuring alignment with overall business goals.

• Develop long-term career pathways for bar staff, implementing a structured training and certification program.

• Support recruitment, onboarding, and performance management for senior bar personnel.

• Implement leadership training for potential bar managers and succession planning for internal promotions.

• Ensure compliance with all local liquor laws, health and safety regulations, and company policies.

• Conduct regular audits to maintain high-quality standards in bar cleanliness, hygiene, and service.

• Work with HR team to implement and enforce alcohol service policies.

• Collaborate with Management Team and Directors to align beverage strategies with overall restaurant goals.

• Coordinate with marketing, PR, and events teams to ensure successful bar-driven promotions and activations.

• Liaise with finance teams to optimize budgets and investments in bar-related innovations.

Minimum Qualifications & Experience

• Degree in Hospitality Management, Business, or related field.

• Minimum of five (5+) years in a senior role, preferably in a high-volume restaurant or luxury setting.

• Expert knowledge of mixology, beverage pairings, and cultural significance of drinks, particularly Chinese beverage traditions.

• Strong financial acumen, with experience in budget management and supplier negotiations.

• Excellent leadership and team development skills.

• Proficiency in beverage cost control, data analytics, and menu engineering.

• Experience in brand-building and marketing beverage programs.

• Advanced knowledge of liquor licensing laws and health regulations.

• Supports a collaborative environment, effectively managing challenges and fostering a cohesive team dynamic.