At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the bar operation and create seasonal, ingredient-led cocktails.
- Company: The Wild Rabbit, a top-rated fine dining restaurant in the Cotswolds.
- Benefits: Enjoy discounts on products, wellness classes, and private medical insurance.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Join a celebrated team and craft memorable guest experiences in a beautiful setting.
- Qualifications: Strong mixology skills and a guest-first mindset are essential.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 48000 £ per year.
Daylesford Stays - a part of The Bamford Collection. We provide experiences that embrace luxury escapism: understated elegance, indulgence and nurture.
SALARY: £48,000 per annum OTE
HOURS: Full Time, 48 hours per week
ABOUT US
The Wild Rabbit in Kingham is a fine dining restaurant and boutique hotel in the heart of the Cotswolds. Recognised in the Top 50 Gastropubs, the Top 50 Boutique Hotels, and awarded 3 AA Rosettes, The Wild Rabbit blends culinary excellence with warm, authentic hospitality. Working in close connection with Daylesford Farm, our menus showcase the best seasonal, organic produce, crafted with skill and creativity. Under the leadership of Executive Chef Callum Graham, our team combines classical technique with modern inspiration, making The Wild Rabbit one of the most exciting fine dining destinations in the Cotswolds.
ABOUT THE ROLE
This is an opportunity to play a key role in one of the Cotswolds’ most celebrated hospitality destinations, shaping a bar programme that sits proudly alongside Michelin-level food and service. Working with seasonal, organic ingredients and premium spirits, you’ll help create thoughtful, refined cocktails while delivering warm, intuitive hospitality. It’s a hands-on role for someone who cares deeply about craft, provenance and creating memorable guest experiences in a calm, beautiful setting.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead the bar operation day to day, ensuring consistently high standards of service, quality and presentation.
- Create and deliver seasonal, ingredient-led cocktails using fresh, organic and responsibly sourced produce.
- Work confidently with modern mixology techniques while keeping drinks refined, balanced and approachable.
- Deliver warm, personalised service with confident recommendations and storytelling around provenance.
- Maintain a pristine, stylish bar environment that reflects the luxury standards of The Wild Rabbit.
- Stay calm and composed during busy services, supporting the team and ensuring smooth service flow.
- Manage stock, ordering, pricing and GP in line with commercial targets.
- Train, mentor and support the bar team, building knowledge, confidence and consistency.
- Champion sustainability, B Corp values and conscious working practices.
- Work closely with senior management and the wider F&B team to continually develop the bar offering.
SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS
- Strong mixology skills with confidence working with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
- Deep knowledge of premium spirits, wines and artisanal drinks.
- A guest-first mindset, delivering warm, personalised and intuitive service.
- High attention to detail in drink quality, presentation and bar standards.
- Calm, composed approach during busy services.
- Commercial awareness, including stock control and GP management.
- Natural leadership and the ability to train and inspire others.
PERKS AND BENEFITS
- Discounts on products, treatments, and dining experiences from day one.
- Mental Health Support: 24-hour access to our Employee Assistance Programme.
- Padel Discount (Cotswolds).
- Nationwide Gym Discounts available through Help@Hand.
- Local Gym Discounts (Cotswolds Area).
- Wellbeing modules for practical support and advice.
- Electric Car Scheme (subject to criteria, following probation).
- Volunteering Days: One paid day per year to volunteer with a charity of your choice.
- Private Medical: Subsidised private medical insurance through Bupa.
- Pension Scheme: Pay up to 9 percent of your salary into your pension each month with a 4.5 percent contribution from us.
- Life Assurance: Cover equivalent to one year of your annual salary.
- Enhanced Family Leave Pay (T&C’s apply).
- Enhanced Company Sick Pay (T&C’s apply).
- Enhanced Holiday Pay (up to 33 days per annum including Bank Holidays, Pro-Rata).
- Refer a Friend Scheme - Earn up to £750 when you refer a friend to work with us (T&C’s apply).
- Flu Jabs (optional, available twice per annum).
*The on target earning potential for this role is £48,000 per annum based on a 48-hour contract - comprising a base salary of £42,000, plus a qualified estimate of £6,000 in gratuities and service charge.
Bar Manager, The Wild Rabbit employer: Bamford Collection
The Bell in Charlbury, part of The Bamford Collection, is an exceptional employer that prioritises sustainability and culinary excellence. With a focus on farm-to-fork principles, employees enjoy a collaborative work culture that fosters creativity and skill development, alongside opportunities for personal growth within a supportive kitchen team. Located in the picturesque Cotswolds, this role offers a unique chance to be part of a renowned establishment that values craftsmanship and guest experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Bar Manager, The Wild Rabbit
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Bamford Collection. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Bamford Collection
Don't be shy about reaching out to Bamford Collection directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Bar Manager, The Wild Rabbit
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Bamford Collection and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bamford Collection
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
