Bar Manager - London

Bar Manager - London

London Full-Time 31000 - 38000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
ESS

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead daily bar operations and create innovative cocktail menus at The O2's American Express Lounge.
  • Company: Join Levy, a visionary partner in hospitality at iconic venues.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, healthcare, 23 days' leave, and perks like discounts and training.
  • Other info: Embrace sustainability and innovation while shaping the future of hospitality.
  • Why this job: Be part of a passionate team delivering unforgettable guest experiences in a vibrant environment.
  • Qualifications: Experience managing a fast-paced cocktail bar and strong leadership skills required.

The predicted salary is between 31000 - 38000 £ per year.

  • Bar Manager - London
  • Bar Manager - The O2 | American Express Lounge, London | Full-Time / Permanent

42,000 + excellent benefits including healthcare, wellbeing support, 23 days' annual leave plus bank holidays, life assurance, meals on duty, and more.

We're seeking an experienced Bar Manager to oversee daily bar operations and drive the delivery of excellent guest experiences at The O2 Arena's American Express Lounge - one of the premium bar and dining area within this world renowned and iconic entertainment venue.

We are Levy

We are a visionary venue partner. We design and deliver bespoke guest experiences that prioritise people and the planet.

Trusted by some of the world's most iconic stadiums, entertainment venues, and major events, from Wimbledon and Twickenham to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Edgbaston, the SEC and Excel London, we bring experiences to life with passion and precision.

Our mission is to succeed the right way.

From pioneering tech and seamless operations to show-stopping menus and exceptional service, we use insight and innovation to understand guests, improve the customer journey, reduce environmental impact, and support local communities.

We are a passionate, diverse team of venue specialists dedicated to making the planet better for future generations.

  • Bar Manager, Amex Lounge - The role
  • Lead the day-to-day operations of the Amex Cocktail Bar, Gantry and Main Bar including creating innovative cocktail menus
  • Drive recruitment and team training - leading a talent bar operations team
  • Deliver exceptional beverage service across Amex Lounges for world-class events
  • Ensure arena-wide cocktail service consistently meets Levy's high standards
  • Inspire teams to exceed guest expectations through strong leadership
  • Drive performance in line with KPIs, service agreements and Levy standards
  • Deliver outstanding catering and beverage experiences for every guest
  • Champion the Levy Difference by creating legendary guest experiences
  • Stay ahead of industry trends, embracing new technology and innovation
  • Promote a strong cocktail culture with a focus on sustainability and eco-friendly practices
  • Maintain H&S compliance and lead a health & safety culture
  • Support the Head of Amex Lounge and Restaurant Manager with recruitment, training, and maintaining client communications and relationship

What we're looking for

  • Experience in managing a fast-paced cocktail bar with a high-volume of bookings
  • A background working with a demanding hospitality environment, ideally within London
  • Friendly and approachable with good interpersonal skills

• Events Management skills are a bonus!

  • First rate written and verbal communication skills
  • Brilliant leadership skills - the ability to lead, motivate, and inspire!
  • Engaging, enthusiastic and motivated
  • What you'll get in return
  • Competitive salary with bonus and full company benefits
  • 23 days' annual leave plus bank holidays, your birthday off, and a holiday purchase scheme
  • Healthcare & wellbeing: Aviva Digicare, Medicash (dental, optical, therapy treatments)
  • Mental health support: 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
  • Family benefits: Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption leave. 2 days? additional leave after returning from maternity leave, day off for your baby?s first birthday, enhanced family leave
  • Perks & discounts: Shopping, entertainment, and travel discounts, 20% off Nuffield Health and 10% off Pure Gym memberships
  • Financial wellbeing: Pension scheme, Life Assurance, preferred rates on salary finance products
  • Development opportunities: Professional subscriptions, ongoing training and structured career pathways
  • Meals on duty included

Why Join Us?

Levy UK & Ireland is part of Compass Group, the world's largest catering company, and a vibrant leader in hospitality.

We believe in celebrating individuality and building inclusive teams where everyone feels they belong. Our diverse team fuels creativity, innovation, and excellence.

We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and welcome candidates from all backgrounds to join us in creating a supportive, empowering workplace where everyone can thrive.

Together, we create unforgettable experiences ? and shape the future of hospitality.

Bar Manager - London employer: ESS

Chartwells Education is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises growth and excellence in the education catering sector. With a commitment to employee development and a focus on delivering outstanding food and hospitality experiences, you will find ample opportunities for professional advancement while making a meaningful impact across educational institutions. Join us in a role that not only values your expertise but also fosters a supportive environment for innovation and collaboration.

ESS

Contact Details:

ESS Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Bar Manager - London

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 ESS. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!

Reach Out Directly to ESS

Don't be shy about reaching out to ESS 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 - London

Bar Management
Cocktail Menu Creation
Team Leadership
Guest Experience Enhancement
Performance Management
Health and Safety Compliance
Interpersonal Skills

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 ESS 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 ESS

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!