Head Bartender

At Sofitel London St James, we redefine luxury by treating a stay as more than just a temporary pause—it’s an opportunity for guests to fall in love with a unique blend of refined luxury and playful indulgence. Our commitment to excellence transcends the ordinary, and we invite you to join a team that specialises in transforming stays into enchanting tales. We take immense pride in creating a playfully elegant and meaningful experience for both our guests and ourselves. Our commitment to fostering a workplace culture that values diversity, encourages professional growth, and recognises individual contributions ensures that each team member feels appreciated and empowered in their role. Apply now to embark on a career that transcends expectations and celebrates the art of hospitality.

Situated within the elegant ambiance of Sofitel London St James, our St James Bar embodies French sophistication in the heart of London. Renowned for its innovation and attention to detail, the bar offers an exquisite selection of fine spirits, wines, and handcrafted cocktails. Recognised in May 2026, the bar was awarded a One Pin by The Pinnacle Guide, recognising excellence in its drinks programme, guest experience, and hospitality standards. This achievement reflects the team's commitment to innovation, creativity, and world-class service.

As our Head Bartender, you will lead our talented bar team in creating extraordinary guest experiences. With expertise in mixology, you will craft exceptional cocktails while collaborating closely with Bar Management to design an appealing menu of cocktails, wines, and beers. Your role includes maintaining the highest service standards, ensuring cleanliness and safety protocols, and fostering team development through ongoing training and feedback. This is an opportunity to bring creativity, passion, and leadership to a world-class venue that values innovation and exceptional hospitality.

Responsibilities:

• Inspire and lead our bar team to deliver personalised service that surpasses expectations, creating truly unique and memorable experiences for each guest.
• Be fully conversant with the St. James Bar licence laws and ensure that all members are trained and compliant. Records must be available at all times.
• Attend meetings & trainings as required on food and beverage, Health & Safety and pass on any relevant information to your team and ensure they are fully aware of the matters discussed.
• Create and maintain standards of service that will be in line with the company strategy and policy i.e. Standard Operating Manual (SOP) to achieve excellence, consistency and the best result for LQA mystery guest and Forbes Guide.
• Curate and continuously evolve an innovative cocktail menu that is both seasonally inspired and exquisitely crafted.
• Ensure all guests’ checks are correctly posted at the end of each service period on Micros, alongside cashiering and duties related to this task.
• Be accurate for maximising sales in the department through efficient utilization of resources, sound selling techniques and incentive programs.
• Responsible for controlling the cost, and take appropriate actions and maximise profit.
• Collaborate with the Bar Manager to assist in achieving our collective goals of revenue growth and sustained profitability.
• Cooperate with other Leaders to provide a high level of service across the hotel.
• Uphold the highest standards of cleanliness and organisation within the bar area, adhering meticulously to health and safety regulations.
• Mentor and cultivate the skills of our bar team, fostering their growth in both mixology expertise and the art of impeccable customer service.
• Assist in implementing sustainability initiatives such as waste reduction, energy conservation, and eco-friendly sourcing practices to minimise the environmental impact of bar operations and support corporate social responsibility goals.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 2–3 years’ experience in a senior bartender, head bartender, or supervisory bar role within a luxury hotel, premium bar, or high-end hospitality environment.
• Advanced knowledge of cocktails, spirits, wines, beers, and mixology techniques, with experience creating and developing cocktail menus.
• Proven leadership and team development skills, with the ability to train, mentor, motivate, and manage a high-performing bar team.
• Strong understanding of licensing laws, food safety regulations, health & safety requirements, and best practices in bar operations.
• Experience using POS systems, preferably Micros, with sound knowledge of cash handling, stock control, inventory management, and cost management.
• Exceptional guest service, communication, and interpersonal skills, with a passion for delivering memorable luxury hospitality experiences and driving guest satisfaction.

Benefits:

• Competitive compensation package, including service charge and annual bonus of £1,300.00 per year.
• Free Stays in the UK or Ireland (4 nights/year).
• Employee Benefit Card – Discounted rates at Accor properties worldwide.
• Sofitel Experience – Enjoy a luxurious night at our hotel, complete with a delightful breakfast.
• Complimentary Meals While on Duty.
• Special Rates in F&B, Rooms & Spa – Treat yourself to luxury at unbeatable prices.
• Be Part of the Largest Hospitality Group in Europe.
• Exceptional Training and Development Opportunities through Apprenticeship Program.
• Global Growth Opportunities.
• Employee Assistance Program with 24/7 GP Access – Your well-being is our priority.
• Social Events and Activities.

Bring passion and dedication to excellence, and we will recognise your contribution with a variety of benefits, rewards and development opportunities. We also offer a range of wellbeing initiatives, including apps with content to help you feel at your best. Join us, and you can thrive as an individual as well as being part of a supportive and inclusive team.