Head Bartender/Bar Manager

About the Opportunity

A well-established premium cafe is expanding its offerings by launching a high-end bar program focused on sophisticated craft cocktails, curated spirits, and an exclusive wine selection. We are seeking an exceptionally skilled, experienced, and innovative Head Mixologist/Master Bartender to spearhead this new venture. This is a unique opportunity to build a world-class bar concept from the ground up and define the beverage experience for a discerning clientele.

Role Summary

The Master Bartender will be the visionary and operational leader for the new bar. This senior role demands a seasoned professional with a minimum of ten years of experience who can create, implement, manage, and execute a profitable and highly acclaimed beverage program. The successful candidate will set the standard for quality, consistency, and guest engagement.

Key Responsibilities

1. Concept Development & Menu Design

• Signature Menu Creation: Design and develop an innovative, high-profit cocktail menu, emphasizing creative techniques, fresh ingredients, and seasonal rotations.
• Selection & Sourcing: Curate the entire spirit, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic selection, establishing vendor relationships and managing the sourcing process.
• Operational Setup: Oversee the physical and procedural setup of the bar area, ensuring efficiency, aesthetic appeal, and adherence to regulatory standards.

2. Operations, Quality, and Inventory Control

• SOP Implementation: Develop and enforce rigorous Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all bar operations, including service speed, drink consistency, hygiene, and safe alcohol handling.
• Cost Management: Implement strict inventory control measures, conduct frequent inventory counts, manage purchasing, and strategically minimize pour costs and waste to ensure profitability.
• Compliance: Ensure complete adherence to all local and national laws regarding alcohol service, safety, and certification.

3. Leadership, Training, and Mentorship

• Bar Team Training: Conduct comprehensive training for all bar and service staff on mixology techniques, product knowledge (tasting notes, history), responsible alcohol service, and premium guest interaction.
• Excellence Coaching: Act as a mentor and coach, maintaining the highest levels of professionalism, productivity, and morale within the bar team.
• Performance Management: Set performance standards and conduct regular evaluations to ensure the consistent delivery of a five-star beverage service.

4. Guest Experience & Engagement

• Service Delivery: Provide expert, personalized service, engaging guests with detailed knowledge about ingredients, techniques, and the story behind the drinks.
• Ambiance Contribution: Ensure the bar area maintains an inviting, clean, and energetic atmosphere that enhances the overall cafe experience.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Experience: A minimum of 10 years of recent, continuous experience as a Bartender or Mixologist in a reputable high-end establishment. Experience launching new bar concepts or managing flagship venues is highly preferred.
• Technical Mastery: Unparalleled expertise in mixology, including advanced techniques (e.g., molecular, clarification, barrel aging) and an encyclopedic knowledge of all beverage categories.
• Commercial Acumen: Demonstrated history of successfully managing costs, controlling inventory, and positively impacting the bar's bottom line.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Possesses all necessary and current alcohol service certifications (e.g., TABC, RAMP, or equivalent).
• Personal Attributes: Exceptional communication, presence, and leadership skills; professional demeanor; high level of integrity and responsibility.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• Food provided
• Provident Fund

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Lower Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Experience:

• bartending: 10 years (Required)

Work Location: In person