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- Tasks: Lead bar service, create exceptional drinks, and develop a high-performing team.
- Company: Join Medlock Square, a vibrant new destination in Manchester's cultural scene.
- Benefits: Enjoy meals on shifts, competitive holiday allowance, and a birthday day off.
- Other info: Flexible hours with opportunities for career growth in a dynamic setting.
- Why this job: Be part of a flagship venue redefining hospitality and culture in Manchester.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Bartender or similar role in a fast-paced environment.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Medlock Square marks a bold new chapter in the evolution of the Etihad Campus - a vibrant, year round destination for culture, leisure and entertainment, set alongside two global icons: the Etihad Stadium, home of Manchester City Football Club, and the landmark Co op Live arena. Named after the River Medlock that runs beneath the site, the development celebrates Manchester's industrial heritage while shaping its next era of city defining experiences. Manchester is known worldwide for its sport, music and entertainment - and Medlock Square will build on that legacy, creating a landmark home for exceptional shared moments and elevating the city's position as one of Europe's most dynamic, fast growing destinations.
At the heart of this new district will be an extraordinary food and beverage offer: from relaxed coffee houses and all day dining to flagship restaurants and premium culinary experiences. Designed to serve both everyday visitors and major event audiences, Medlock Square will deliver high quality hospitality all week long and across the events calendar.
We seek dynamic, guest obsessed operators who can build teams, lead from the front, and deliver service that matches the scale and ambition of Medlock Square. You'll play a vital role in creating welcoming, memorable spaces for everyday guests and major event visitors alike. As Head Bartender, you will lead the bar operation within a premium, high-energy hospitality environment, delivering exceptional drinks, service, and guest experience. This is a hands‑on leadership role where you will set the tone behind the bar, ensuring quality, consistency, and pace across all service periods. You will be responsible for maintaining high standards in drink execution, presentation, and guest interaction, while supporting the development and performance of the bar team. Working across both event and non‑event days, you will play a key role in delivering a distinctive and memorable guest experience, contributing to the overall success of the venue.
In this role you will:
- Lead bar service, ensuring high-quality drinks, consistency, and premium service standards
- Support and develop bartenders, creating a confident, skilled, and high-performing team
- Deliver cocktails, beverages, and bar service in line with concept and brand standards
- Maintain high standards of cleanliness, organisation, and bar setup at all times
- Support stock control, ordering, and minimise waste
- Work closely with the floor team to deliver seamless, high‑touch guest experiences
- Contribute to revenue growth through product knowledge, upselling, and service excellence
Skills, Knowledge & Expertise
Essential
- Proven experience as a Head Bartender, Senior Bartender, or Bar Supervisor in a premium or high-volume environment
- Strong cocktail knowledge and experience delivering high-quality drinks consistently
- Experience working in fast-paced, high-energy service environments
- Confident leading a bar team during service
- Strong understanding of licensing, alcohol service, and health & safety standards
- Excellent communication and guest engagement skills
- Calm and organised under pressure
- Passion for drinks, service, and guest experience
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and event days
Desirable
- Experience in a premium or concept‑led bar or restaurant
- Experience supporting new openings or bar launches
- Knowledge of cocktail trends, premium spirits, and wine
- Experience with stock systems and bar inventory management
- Experience working in high-profile or event-led venues
Why Join Us?
- Be part of a flagship destination set to redefine hospitality in Manchester
- Work within a world class entertainment and cultural district
- Build and lead new teams from the ground up
- Influence concepts, menus and guest experiences
- Grow your career within a pioneering and high profile development
Benefits
- Meals on Shifts – Enjoy lunch & dinner while you work.
- Competitive Holiday Allowance – plus bank holidays.
- Birthday Day Off – Enjoy an extra day off to celebrate your birthday.
- Inclusive & Diverse Workplace – Be part of a team that values diversity and inclusion.
- Wellbeing – Support and resources to help you stay well, both in and outside of work.
Head Bartender - Manchester, Greater Manchester in Salford employer: Eastlands Venue Services
Contact Detail:
Eastlands Venue Services Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Bartender - Manchester, Greater Manchester in Salford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and mingle with fellow bartenders, event managers, and hospitality folks. Attend local events or join online groups to connect with people who can help you land that Head Bartender role at Medlock Square.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you’ve got a killer cocktail recipe or a unique drink presentation, don’t be shy about sharing it on social media. Tagging Medlock Square could catch their eye and show them you’re the perfect fit for their vibrant bar scene.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your cocktail knowledge and service standards. Be ready to discuss how you’d lead a team in a fast-paced environment and create memorable guest experiences. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and the exciting opportunities at Medlock Square right there.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Bartender - Manchester, Greater Manchester in Salford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your love for bartending and guest experience shine through. We want to see that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you’re genuinely excited about creating memorable moments for our guests.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in high-energy environments. We’re looking for someone who can lead a team and deliver top-notch service, so share specific examples of how you've done this in the past.
Be Authentic: Don’t be afraid to let your personality come through in your application. We value authenticity and want to know what makes you unique as a bartender and a leader. This is your chance to stand out!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Medlock Square!
How to prepare for a job interview at Eastlands Venue Services
✨Know Your Cocktails
Brush up on your cocktail knowledge before the interview. Be ready to discuss your favourite drinks, how to make them, and any unique twists you've added in the past. This shows your passion and expertise, which is crucial for a Head Bartender role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a bar team in previous roles. Think about times when you motivated your team during busy shifts or resolved conflicts. This will demonstrate your ability to lead from the front and create a high-performing environment.
✨Understand the Venue's Vibe
Research Medlock Square and its offerings. Familiarise yourself with their concept, target audience, and the type of events they host. Being able to discuss how you can contribute to their vision will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Practice Guest Engagement Scenarios
Anticipate questions about guest interactions and service excellence. Prepare to share stories where you went above and beyond for a guest or handled a challenging situation. This will highlight your commitment to creating memorable experiences.