Head Bartender

The Head Bartender is responsible for overseeing bar operations in a luxury setting, ensuring the highest level of service, and managing the bartending team. This role involves crafting exceptional cocktails, maintaining a smooth flow of service, developing the drink menu, managing bar inventory, and providing leadership to the bar staff. The Head Bartender is a key position that requires experience in mixology, excellent leadership skills, and a passion for delivering an outstanding guest experience.  

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the Bar Team: Supervise, train, and mentor a team of bartenders and bar staff, ensuring they provide excellent service and adhere to bar standards.
• Create and Innovate: Develop and refine cocktail menus and drink offerings, staying current with trends in mixology and creating signature drinks that align with the venue’s brand.
• Maintain Bar Operations: Oversee daily bar operations, including setting up, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring smooth service during shifts.
• Guest Interaction: Ensure guests receive top-notch service by engaging with customers, taking drink orders, making personalized recommendations, and creating a memorable experience.
• Inventory Management: Manage bar inventory, including ordering supplies, tracking stock levels, and ensuring the bar is well-stocked with liquor, mixers, garnishes, and other essentials.
• Quality Control: Ensure the quality of drinks is consistent and meets the venue's high standards. Ensure that the bar team follows all recipes, drink specifications, and garnishing techniques.
• Handle Special Requests: Accommodate special guest requests, custom orders, and dietary preferences with professionalism and care.
• Maintain Cleanliness and Safety: Ensure the bar area is clean, organized, and compliant with health and safety standards. Ensure that all equipment is maintained and in good working order.
• Upselling and Promotions: Upsell high-end drinks, wines, and cocktails to enhance the guest experience and increase revenue for the venue.
• Handle Complaints: Address and resolve any customer complaints or issues regarding drinks or service, ensuring complete guest satisfaction.
• Team Collaboration: Work closely with kitchen staff, servers, and management to ensure seamless service throughout the venue.
• Cash Handling and Closing: Manage cash and credit card transactions at the bar, handle tips, and assist with closing the bar at the end of the shift.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Experience: Proven experience as a bartender, with at least 2-3 years of experience in a high-end bar, luxury hotel, or exclusive venue. Previous experience as a Head Bartender or Supervisory role is a plus.
• Leadership: Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and guide a team to perform at the highest level.
• Mixology Knowledge: Expertise in mixology, with a deep understanding of cocktail recipes, garnishes, techniques, and trends in the beverage industry.
• Customer Service: Exceptional customer service skills, with the ability to engage with guests, create a positive atmosphere, and handle complaints diplomatically.
• Attention to Detail: Excellent attention to detail, particularly when it comes to the preparation of drinks, presentation, and service standards.
• Communication Skills: Strong verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly direct the team and interact with guests.
• Physical Stamina: Ability to stand for long periods, lift heavy items, and work in a fast-paced environment.
• Organizational Skills: Ability to manage inventory, track stock levels, and ensure efficient bar operations.
• Knowledge of Health & Safety: Understanding of health and safety regulations in a bar environment and the ability to enforce these standards.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certifications: Bartending or mixology certifications, such as from recognized institutions or schools, are preferred.
• Language Skills: Fluency in multiple languages (especially Arabic or English) to cater to diverse guest profiles.
• Experience in Luxury Venues: Previous experience working in luxury hotels, upscale bars, or exclusive venues is a plus.