Head Bartender - Orangery in Knutsford

Location: On-site in Knutsford, Cheshire, North-West England (not remote)

Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere is one of the North West’s most distinguished luxury destinations. Nestled in the heart of the Cheshire countryside and surrounded by a championship golf course, the resort combines Fairmont’s world-renowned elegance with the warmth and character of its local heritage. Renowned for exceptional service and attention to detail, Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere offers guests an indulgent escape featuring world-class spa experiences, exceptional dining, and outstanding leisure facilities.

Your purpose will be: To lead the bar team in delivering a flawless, high-impact arrival experience that reflects the energy, precision, and elevated standards of the Orangery. The Head Host ensures every guest is welcomed with confidence and warmth, manages the flow of the bar with absolute control, and supports the front-of-house team in delivering exceptional service from the moment guests step through the door.

Job Description

• Lead the bar during assigned shifts, allocating tasks and ensuring smooth, efficient service.
• Prepare the bar and floor to a flawless standard ahead of service.
• Guide, support, and motivate the team, fostering a culture of excellence in service and drink creation.
• Take and deliver food and beverage orders with precision and confidence.
• Work closely with the Bar Manager to train, develop, and upskill the team.
• Oversee scheduling, sales incentives, training needs, and outlet responsibilities.
• Step behind the bar or onto the floor when required, leading by example.
• Anticipate guest needs and deliver warm, attentive, and proactive service.
• Delegate tasks effectively to maintain seamless service flow.
• Uphold Gordon Ramsay and Fairmont service standards at all times.
• Follow all beverage procedures, including ordering, stock control, and dispensing.
• Address guest issues promptly, professionally, and with ownership.
• Maintain expert knowledge of the bar list to maximise upselling opportunities.
• Handle cash, card, and room charge transactions accurately.
• Ensure the bar remains clean, organised, and service-ready throughout the shift.
• Participate actively in team meetings, briefings, and training sessions.
• Maintain clear communication across the bar team and with other departments.
• Support recruitment and onboarding within the bar team.
• Lead the beverage programme for the bar, curating an exceptional selection aligned with Gordon Ramsay’s standards and guest expectations.
• Drive the creation and execution of the cocktail list, delivering innovative, on-brand drinks that complement the venue’s identity.
• Engage with social media as an ambassador for the bar, showcasing its personality and building guest connection.
• Participate in bar takeovers, industry events, and brand activations, representing the venue with professionalism and passion.

Qualifications

• 1–2 years’ experience in a bar or beverage-led environment, ideally premium or high-end.
• Previous supervisory or team-leading experience desirable.
• Strong knowledge of cocktails, spirits, and beverage trends.
• Food Safety Level 2 and Alcohol Licensing Awareness (or willingness to complete).
• Confident cash handling and POS experience.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.
• Ability to work under pressure while maintaining a polished, professional presence.
• Experience with stock control and ordering processes beneficial.
• Passion for hospitality, guest engagement, and delivering exceptional service.

Additional Information

• Exclusive Discounts: Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere, Spa and Golf discount.
• Fairmont, Raffles, and Accor Hotels (friends and family rates are included).
• 20% off food and beverage in on-site restaurants.
• Colleague restaurant.
• Being part of The Mere Team – our culture is unique!
• You will benefit from training and development opportunities.
• Competitive salary and benefits including pension.
• 28 days of holiday including public holidays.
• 1-5 days service award based on length of service.
• Special rates for Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere colleagues and their friends & family and discount across Accor hotels worldwide.
• And last but not least you will get to work with a team of EXTRAORDINARY people.