At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the bar team, craft amazing cocktails, and create a vibrant atmosphere for guests.
- Company: Freight Island, Newcastle's exciting food market blending culture, food, and music.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, dynamic work environment, and opportunities to showcase your bartending skills.
- Other info: Weekend availability required; be part of an urban oasis with great career growth potential.
- Why this job: Join a game-changing venue and make unforgettable experiences for guests every day.
- Qualifications: 3+ years bartending experience, cocktail expertise, and leadership skills in a fast-paced setting.
The predicted salary is between 11.7 - 14.3 £ per hour.
Welcome to Newcastle’s Newest Neighbourhood! Freight Island is one of the most exciting, forward-thinking and disruptive food markets in the world. It’s a game changer and more importantly, it has soul. Established in Manchester, Freight Island is bringing an exciting mix of culture, food, drinks and music to Newcastle. An urban oasis where guests can enjoy delicious food, great drinks and live entertainment.
We specialise in curating an evolving calendar of residencies and menus that span emerging local talent and nationally recognised names, keeping the experiences fresh and engaging. We care about the details. How things look. How they feel. How people move through the space, and what stays with them after they leave.
We are looking for an experienced Head Bartender to lead the team at Freight Island! As a leader on the bar, you will play an essential part in our guest’s journey, ensuring the team delivers drinks to a perfect spec while maintaining a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. You will work closely with management to oversee the day-to-day running of the bars and ensure our high standards are met consistently. You MUST have weekend availability and significant cocktail experience to be considered.
Key Responsibilities- Leading the team to deliver drinks to a perfect spec and look, ensuring a high quality of service across the entire bar.
- Overseeing the setup and maintenance of all bar stations to an excellent standard.
- Taking and making correct drinks orders, upselling standard serves to premium and showcasing the best of our product ranges.
- Maintaining an in-depth knowledge of the bar offerings and ensuring the entire team has memorised all specs.
- Liaising with the bar support team to ensure there is plenty of stock, ice, and garnish prepared at all times.
- Managing stock levels, including recording any wastage or broken stock correctly.
- Training and mentoring staff on sponsor brands and upselling techniques to maximise the Freight Island experience.
- Ensuring daily and weekly cleaning schedules are completed to the highest standard.
- Enforcing Challenge 25, Licensing Rules, and all H&S or security specifics.
- Creating a fun, upbeat and welcoming atmosphere while engaging with guests to create a great buzz.
- Supporting the floor staff with clearing during quieter periods to maintain venue standards.
- Extensive Bartending experience (minimum 3+ years, with at least 2 years in cocktails).
- Previous leadership experience in a high-volume, fast-paced venue or food hall environment.
- A can-do attitude and a calm head when it gets busy, with the ability to lead by example under pressure.
- An infectious smile and outgoing personality to lead the team in creating a phenomenal customer experience.
- Phenomenal communication skills and the ability to coordinate effectively with management and bar support.
- Willingness to work outside (under cover) as required by the venue layout.
- Fluent English (spoken and comprehension).
Compensation: To be discussed
Head Bartender in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: Freight Island
Freight Island is not just a workplace; it's a vibrant community hub in Newcastle that offers an exciting blend of culture, food, and entertainment. As a Head Bartender, you'll thrive in a dynamic environment that values creativity and teamwork, with ample opportunities for personal growth and development. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team that prioritises quality service and a fun atmosphere, making every shift a rewarding experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Bartender in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨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 Freight Island. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Freight Island
Don't be shy about reaching out to Freight Island 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 Head Bartender in Newcastle upon Tyne
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 Freight Island 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 Freight Island
✨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!
