Bar Manager

As Bar Manager for Cambridge House, you will take pride in overseeing the daily operation of our bars, ensuring a consistently refined and welcoming experience for every guest. You will guide and mentor the bar team, develop an inspiring beverage offering, and ensure the highest standards of service are delivered at all times. Working closely with the Director of Beverage and the wider Food & Beverage team, you will play an important role in bringing the personality of Cambridge House to life through the bar experience, creating a destination that reflects the energy of our home as well as honouring its storied history.

Key Responsibilities

• Work alongside the Director of Beverage during the pre-opening period to assist with bar set-up, supplier selection, beverage sourcing, equipment planning and the development of service standards.
• Oversee the daily operation of our bars, ensuring every service runs smoothly and reflects the elegance and character of Cambridge House.
• Maintain a visible and engaged presence on the floor, guiding service and ensuring guests receive attentive, thoughtful hospitality throughout their visit.
• Shape the identity of the Cambridge House bars by assisting in developing a distinctive beverage offering that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship and quality.
• Act as the public face of the bar, confidently representing the venue through guest engagement, events, and public presentations.
• Ensure the bar provides a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere at all times.
• Pay close attention to the details that elevate the guest experience, from presentation and service rituals to ambience and music, ensuring the bars remain desired destinations within the hotel.
• Support, guide and develop bar team members, creating a positive and respectful working environment where individuals feel confident in delivering excellent service.
• Encourage collaboration, knowledge sharing and pride in the craft.
• Assist with the recruitment, training and development of bar team members in partnership with the wider team.
• Ensure all team members receive thorough product knowledge training and understand the standards and service style of Cambridge House.
• Monitor service standards closely and ensure consistency across all shifts.
• Address operational challenges promptly and support team members in delivering smooth and efficient service during busy periods.
• Build strong relationships with guests, recognising returning visitors and creating memorable moments that encourage guests to return to the bar as part of the Cambridge House experience.
• Manage stock control and inventory with care and accuracy, ensuring the bar is consistently well supplied while maintaining effective cost management and minimising waste.
• Maintain a strong understanding of financial performance, including beverage cost management, labour planning and revenue opportunities, supporting the bar’s commercial success while maintaining exceptional standards.
• Ensure full compliance with UK licensing regulations, health and safety requirements and company procedures, maintaining a safe and well-organised working environment.
• Collaborate closely with other departments across the property, ensuring the bar experience integrates seamlessly with the wider Cambridge House guest journey.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Bar Manager within a luxury hotel, high-end restaurant or renowned cocktail bar.
• Strong knowledge of spirits, cocktails and emerging beverage trends.
• Confidence in supporting and developing team members within a professional and positive working environment.
• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage a dynamic service environment.
• Experience managing stock, beverage costs and financial performance.
• Strong communication skills and a collaborative approach when working with other departments.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and busy service periods.