Bar and Lounge Manager in Windermere

Langdale Chase Hotel, which sits on the banks of beautiful Lake Windermere, has recently undergone a full and significant refurbishment and reopened its doors in November 2023. In that time the hotel has achieved 5 Star Status from the AA and been recognised in the prestigious Times Top 100 Places to Stay, ranked No.3 and North of England Hotel of the Year.

We are looking for an experienced and passionate Bar and Lounge Manager to lead our bar and lounge operation and elevate the hotel's drinks experience. This is a hands-on leadership role where you will inspire and develop the food and beverage team, curate exceptional drinks menus, and deliver five-star service in line with our brand standards and Hotel Product Plan.

Your day to day:

• Maintain & evolve the hotel's wine, cocktail & drinks offering, including seasonal menus, in line with the Hotel Product Plan.
• Act as the wine lead for the hotel, providing expert recommendations, food & wine pairings, wine tastings, & liaising with the Executive Chef & senior management.
• Manage hotel liquor stock & cellar operations, ensuring strong controls around GP, wastage, rotation, cleanliness & compliance with licensing laws & H&S regulations.
• Oversee day-to-day bar operations with a visible floor presence, ensuring excellent table service, smooth service flow & strong guest engagement.
• Drive revenue through effective upselling, terrace & function management, maximising sales opportunities during service.
• Effectively manage staffing, including recruitment, rotas, performance reviews, attendance, payroll accuracy & adherence to HR procedures.
• Plan, deliver and record SOP and skills training, ensuring all team members and new starters are fully inducted and continuously developed.

Who are we looking for?

• At least 1 year previous experience in a high-quality Four-Star hotel in a management role is essential, whilst experience in a Five Star hotel is desirable.
• WSET Level 2 as a minimum and Level 3 preferred.
• Experience of working in at least a 2 Rosette restaurant is essential, preferably in a management or assistant management role; experience working in a fine dining restaurant is desirable.
• Proven experience in bar management & mixology is a must with at least 2 years experience.
• Strong experience within food and beverage.
• A motivational leader who is seen as a role-model, with proven experience of managing and developing a team.
• Proven experience of meeting guest requirements and going that extra mile.
• You must have a strong work ethic and demonstrate the ability to motivate a team.
• Be able to work in line with the company's brand standards.
• Experience working with Rezlynx and Zonal would be advantageous and confidence with computers is required.
• Strong communication skills.

In return, we are offering a rewarding role with scope for career progression along with:

• A competitive salary, negotiable dependent on experience.
• Wagestream - the ability to access up to 40% of your wages as you earn them each week.
• 28 days annual leave (rising to 33 days after 5 years).
• Enhanced maternity and paternity pay.
• Health cash plan with access to discounted perks and high street discounts.
• Long service awards, including free meals and free stays with your friends or family.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Discounted accommodation, food, and drink in our beautiful properties.
• Pension and Life assurance.
• Bespoke training programmes accessible to all.
• Apprenticeships available.
• An engaging & supportive work environment.