At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead bar operations, ensuring exceptional service and team engagement in a vibrant venue.
- Company: KOKO, a dynamic venue blending hospitality and entertainment.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, team development opportunities, and a fun work environment.
- Other info: Flexible hours with opportunities for growth in a lively atmosphere.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and create memorable experiences for guests and members.
- Qualifications: 2+ years in a supervisory role in high-volume bars; strong leadership and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The Assistant Bars Manager plays a key role in delivering outstanding bar operations across KOKO's dynamic, multi-bar environment. Working within a fast-paced, high-volume venue with a large and diverse team, this role requires an engaging, service-led leader who thrives in an agile business and leads with both energy and structure. You will be hands-on, visible and passionate about beverage, hospitality and member experience, with a genuine interest in product quality and service standards. Equally, you will understand the importance of process, compliance and consistency in maintaining a safe, efficient and commercially successful operation. This role is well suited to someone who enjoys leading teams on the floor, building strong relationships with members and guests, and balancing creativity and personality with operational excellence. You will support the Bars Manager in delivering high-performing teams and members experience beyond expectations, in a venue combining hospitality and entertainment like no other.
Role & Responsibilities:
- Support the day-to-day management of multiple bars, ensuring smooth, efficient service across all trading periods.
- Lead by example on the floor, maintaining a strong presence and setting the standard for service, professionalism and guest engagement.
- Ensure all opening, closing and handover procedures are completed accurately and to standard.
- Deliver engaging and informative pre-shift briefings, keeping teams aligned on product knowledge, service focus and priorities.
- Champion product quality, presentation and consistency across all bars.
- Collaborate with the marketing, membership and events teams to support activations, private dining experiences and exclusive member events.
- Act as duty management cover when required.
- Deliver a warm, personalised and engaging experience for members and guests, aligned with KOKO's membership ethos.
- Build rapport with regular members and support team understanding of member recognition and preferences.
- Handle guest feedback and complaints calmly and professionally, resolving issues effectively and escalating where appropriate.
Team Leadership & Engagement:
- Lead, motivate, and engage a large bar team in a high-energy environment, fostering pride, accountability and teamwork.
- Support recruitment, onboarding, training and development of team members, helping build confident and capable teams.
- Provide regular feedback, coaching and performance support, leading by example and encouraging continuous improvement.
- Encourage strong product knowledge across spirits, cocktails and service, working closely with the wider hospitality teams.
Commercial & Operational Control:
- Support the Bars Manager in achieving revenue, margin and profitability targets.
- Maintain strong understanding of stock control, product management, wastage reduction and cost control.
- Support effective rota planning in line with forecasts, budgets and operational demands.
- Identify opportunities to improve service flow, efficiency and commercial performance across the bars.
- Ensure adherence to all company policies, procedures, and licensing, health & safety, and food safety standards.
- Support consistent presentation, cleanliness and operational standards across all bar areas.
About you:
- Minimum 2 years' experience in a supervisory or management role within a high-volume bar or hospitality environment.
- Experience working in complex venues with multiple bars and large teams is highly desirable.
- Service-led mindset with a genuine interest in delivering exceptional member and guest experiences.
- Strong communicator who can motivate teams and build positive working relationships.
- Organised and process-driven, with the ability to balance creativity and personality with operational discipline.
- Solutions-focused, proactive, and commercially aware.
- Comfortable working late nights, weekends, and peak service times, in line with the operational needs of the business.
Please note we are only able to consider candidates with the right to work in the UK.
Assistant Bars Manager - London employer: KOKO
KOKO is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture, perfect for those passionate about hospitality and entertainment. With a focus on employee growth, we offer extensive training and development opportunities, ensuring our team members thrive in their roles while delivering outstanding service in a dynamic, multi-bar environment. Located in the heart of London, KOKO provides a unique blend of creativity and operational excellence, making it an exciting place to build a rewarding career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Bars Manager - London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the venue! Before your interview, pop by KOKO and soak up the atmosphere. Familiarise yourself with the bars, the vibe, and even chat with some staff if you can. This shows genuine interest and helps you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for the role. Plus, it could give you an inside edge when it comes to the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your leadership skills! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've motivated teams in high-pressure situations. Highlight your ability to balance fun with operational excellence – that’s what they’re looking for!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at KOKO. Don’t forget to follow up after applying; a little persistence goes a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Bars Manager - London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Hospitality:When you're writing your application, let your love for the bar and hospitality scene shine through. Share specific experiences that highlight your enthusiasm for delivering exceptional service and creating memorable guest experiences.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. We want to see how your background aligns with our dynamic, multi-bar environment and how you can contribute to our team.
Highlight Team Leadership Skills:Since this role involves leading a large team, emphasise your leadership experience. Share examples of how you've motivated and engaged teams in high-pressure situations, showcasing your ability to foster teamwork and accountability.
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 the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our vibrant team!
How to prepare for a job interview at KOKO
✨Know the Venue Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you research KOKO thoroughly. Understand their bar operations, the types of beverages they serve, and their overall ethos. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you answer questions more effectively.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in leading teams, especially in high-volume environments. Share specific examples of how you've motivated staff, handled conflicts, or improved service standards. This will demonstrate your capability as a hands-on leader.
✨Emphasise Customer Experience
Since this role is all about delivering exceptional member and guest experiences, think of examples where you've gone above and beyond for customers. Highlight your service-led mindset and how you build rapport with guests, as this aligns perfectly with what KOKO is looking for.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked how you would handle specific situations, such as managing a busy shift or resolving a customer complaint. Practise your responses to these scenarios, focusing on your problem-solving skills and ability to maintain operational excellence under pressure.
