About This Role
This Bar Manager role involves overseeing the daily operations and performance of the bar, while also supporting the broader Food & Beverage department, including restaurant service and events. The position requires a hands-on leader who enjoys being visible on the floor, setting an example, and creating memorable experiences for guests in a luxury hotel setting.
Responsibilities
- Take ownership of the day-to-day operation of the bar, ensuring an exceptional 5-star guest experience at all times
- Lead, motivate, and develop the bar and F&B team, fostering a positive, professional, and engaging working environment
- Be highly visible and hands-on during service, setting the standard for outstanding hospitality
- Oversee the preparation and service of cocktails, wines, spirits, beers, and other beverages, ensuring consistency and quality
- Develop and maintain an exciting, relevant, and commercially successful drinks offering in line with the hotel's identity
- Work closely with the Food & Beverage Operations Manager on departmental performance, service standards, and operational objectives
- Monitor beverage sales, stock levels, wastage, and ordering, ensuring effective cost control
- Maintain excellent standards of cleanliness, presentation, organisation, and compliance throughout the bar
- Ensure all licensing, health & safety, food safety, and company procedures are consistently followed
- Support the restaurant operation during busy periods and take an active role in restaurant service when required
- Work closely with the restaurant team to ensure a seamless and consistent guest experience across all F&B areas
- Build strong relationships with guests, recognising regular customers and delivering personalised service
- Deal confidently and professionally with guest feedback and service issues
- Assist with recruitment, onboarding, training, and ongoing development of the F&B team
- Support the Food & Beverage Operations Manager with events, private functions, and special occasions
- Contribute ideas and initiatives to continually improve the hotel's Food & Beverage offering
- Deputise for the Food & Beverage Operations Manager when required and appropriate
Requirements
- Previous experience as a Bar Manager, Assistant Bar Manager, or senior bar supervisor, ideally within a luxury hotel, premium restaurant, or high-end bar environment
- Genuine passion for hospitality and delivering exceptional guest experiences
- Confident leading and developing a team while remaining hands-on during service
- Excellent knowledge of cocktails, spirits, wine, and premium beverage service
- Understanding of the commercial aspects of running a successful bar, including stock control and labour management
- Comfortable supporting restaurant service, events, and working across the wider Food & Beverage operation
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build genuine relationships with both guests and colleagues
- High standards and a strong eye for detail
- Organised, proactive, and able to remain calm and professional in a fast-paced environment
- Flexible with working hours, including evenings, weekends, and busy periods
- Takes pride in their work and is committed to creating memorable guest experiences
Benefits
- 50% off from room and F&B outlets for friends and family
- Continuous training and development for all staff of all levels
- TFL monthly travel card for zone 1-2 paid after successful completion of probation
- Staff meals provided on shift
- Discretionary service charge
- Laundry service for all formal uniform
- Introduce a friend scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Holidays: 28 days per year, inclusive of bank holidays, increasing by 1 additional day every 2 years of service, up to a maximum of 8 additional days (pro-rata for part-time employees)
About the Company
St. James's Hotel and Club, established in 1857, is a luxury hotel in Mayfair offering modern English cuisine by Executive Chef William Drabble and suites with private terraces. It is known for its blend of history and hospitality, providing a discreet and opulent experience for guests.