At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive revenue and brand presence for Cantilever Bars through sales and marketing.
- Company: Join a leading bar specialist with a strong team ethic and employee ownership.
- Benefits: Flexible working, international travel, and employee ownership after one year.
- Other info: Training provided in CAD skills and site surveying; flexible location with easy access to London.
- Why this job: Be part of creating exceptional bar venues and grow your career in hospitality.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in sales or marketing, ideally in hospitality; passion for bartending is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
The Bar Business Development Lead is responsible for growing the revenue, brand presence, and customer base of Cantilever Bars. The role combines sales, marketing, and brand ambassadorship, with a focus on building client relationships, generating new business opportunities, and promoting Cantilever Bars within the hospitality industry.
Employee Ownership
Cantilever is an employee ownership business constituted under an Employees Ownership Trust (EOT). There is a strong team ethic and staff have a significant and meaningful say in the direction, belief and purpose of the business.
The Candidate:
Are you passionate and knowledgeable about hospitality and bartending? Would you like to represent one of the industry’s leading bar specialists? We are looking for the right person to join the Cantilever team - someone who understands the realities of running a busy bar and is excited by the opportunity to play a key role in the process of creating exceptional bar venues across the UK and beyond. For over thirty years, Cantilever Bar Systems Ltd has been designing and delivering innovative bar solutions and is well known in the hospitality industry. The ideal candidate will bring sales or marketing experience gained within a hospitality or bar industry context - someone who understands how the industry operates and can use your industry knowledge and experience to support existing clients and attract and win new business to Cantilever. A background as a bartender or in bar management would be an advantage, but is not essential. The successful applicant will be eager to develop new skills and to take Cantilever forward in the world of hospitality.
The Role:
The candidate will manage all new enquiries from initial contact through to entry into the design studio and beyond, helping guide projects from concept to completion while building strong client relationships along the way. Responsibilities include:
- Report to the Director about all leads, marketing opportunities and cashflow forecasts.
- Report to the weekly Team meeting on progress.
- Work closely with the Design Studio and Installation Teams - and remain informed about all project work from inception to completion.
- Manage post-completion project reporting and photography for both in-house use and external marketing.
- Look for and follow potential leads via trade magazines, planning portals etc.
- Maintain positive relationships with all clients and customers and with our extensive contact network.
- Manage and contribute to our social media profile and wider hospitality community – via post creation, messaging and narratives aligned with current market trends.
- Hold meetings, both in person and remotely, to take project briefs.
- Visit sites and undertake initial site surveys.
Skills and Requirements:
- 3+ years’ experience in sales or marketing, ideally within a hospitality or bar industry context.
- A strong understanding of the hospitality industry – whether through direct experience working in bars, venues, or a related commercial role.
- Proficiency in common business software and strong measurement skills.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to build rapport with clients and customers.
- Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel regularly to meetings.
If you do not meet every requirement but feel this role could be a good fit, we encourage you to apply. We are interested in your potential as well as your experience.
Training
Training will be given in the Cantilever way of working – and this will draw on thirty years of experience in the bar industry. Previous CAD experience is not essential, but the successful candidate will be encouraged to develop basic CAD skills, as drawing is an important communication tool within the business. CAD training will be provided following the probationary period. Training will also be provided in site surveying and measurement techniques.
Location
Location is flexible because Cantilever’s work is UK wide, but easy access to London is preferable. The Head Office is in Stonehouse, Gloucestershire and the candidate will be expected to attend meetings and training at the Head Office when required.
Salary
£40,000 - £50,000 - per annum, depending on experience.
Type of Employment
Permanent (subject to a 6-month probationary period)
Benefits
- Flexible working location
- International travel opportunities
- Employee Ownership Trust membership (applicable after one year’s employment)
Application Deadline
Sunday 14th June 2026 at 11:59pm
Contact
If you have any questions about this role, please contact: john.ward@cantileverbars.co.uk
Bar Business Development Lead employer: Cantilever Bars
Cantilever Bars is an exceptional employer that champions employee ownership, allowing staff to have a meaningful say in the direction and purpose of the business. With a strong team ethic, flexible working locations, and opportunities for international travel, employees are encouraged to grow and develop their skills within a supportive environment. Join us to be part of a dynamic team that is shaping the future of the hospitality industry while enjoying the benefits of being part of an innovative and established company.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Bar Business Development Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the hospitality industry. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts on LinkedIn. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you get the chance to chat with someone from Cantilever or any other bar business, let your enthusiasm for bartending and hospitality shine through. Share your ideas and experiences – it’ll make you memorable and show that you’re genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up. Reach out directly to Cantilever Bars and express your interest in working with them. A well-crafted email or message can go a long way in showing your initiative and eagerness to join their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep learning! Stay updated on the latest trends in the bar and hospitality industry. Whether it’s through online courses, webinars, or reading industry publications, showing that you’re committed to professional growth will impress potential employers and set you apart from the competition.
We think you need these skills to ace Bar Business Development Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for the hospitality and bar industry! Share your experiences and what excites you about working with Cantilever Bars. A genuine passion can really make your application stand out.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight relevant experience in sales or marketing within the hospitality sector. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and structure your thoughts well. This will help us understand your qualifications and fit for the role quickly.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cantilever Bars
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the hospitality industry and Cantilever Bars specifically. Understand their products, services, and recent projects. This will show your passion and help you answer questions confidently.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your sales or marketing experience in detail, especially if it relates to the bar or hospitality sector. Use specific examples to illustrate how you've built client relationships or generated new business opportunities in the past.
✨Be a Team Player
Since Cantilever values team ethic, be ready to talk about how you work collaboratively. Share examples of how you've contributed to team success and how you can support the Design Studio and Installation Teams in your role.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your interest in the role and the company. Inquire about their future projects, team dynamics, or how they measure success in this position. This shows you're genuinely interested and engaged.
