Bar Manager

Description:

Job Summary
At Appellation Healdsburg, we believe that the bar is not just a place to serve drinks—it is a stage for storytelling, connection, and craftsmanship. We are seeking a dedicated and highly skilled Manager of Bars to oversee the performance, culture, and creativity of our multi-outlet beverage program. This includes the day-to-day operations of our signature restaurant bar, rooftop/pool bar, lounge, in-room dining beverage offerings, and event bar execution.

The ideal candidate is equal parts hospitality leader, operational tactician, and beverage expert. You will be responsible for delivering a seamless and elevated bar experience across the property while leading a team of passionate professionals, supporting business performance, and evolving our offerings in collaboration with culinary leadership.

Responsibilities:

Bar Operations Oversight (Multi-Outlet)

• Lead and manage the daily operations of all bar outlets, ensuring excellence in service, preparation, cleanliness, and product presentation.
• Implement and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all bar-related functions including setup, service flow, bar prep, closing, and cleanliness.
• Maintain consistent execution of cocktail builds, pour standards, bar mise en place, and guest engagement practices across all venues.
• Coordinate bar operations for in-room dining, private events, and offsite activations when needed.

Beverage Program Development

• Partner with the Director of Bars and Restaurants and culinary team to develop seasonal cocktail menus, bar-forward promotions, spirits lists, and wine-by-the-glass offerings.

Financial Performance & Cost Control

• Monitor and optimize beverage cost of goods (COGS), par levels, inventory cycles, and product waste across all outlets.
• Manage vendor relationships, ordering systems, and product selection to ensure availability, quality, and negotiated pricing.
• Track and report on beverage performance, menu mix, average check metrics, and bar-specific KPIs.

Team Development & Leadership

• Hire, train, and lead a team of bartenders, barbacks, and lead bar staff—instilling a culture of hospitality, accountability, and continuous learning.
• Conduct regular training on cocktail execution, spirits knowledge, wine service, and responsible alcohol practices.
• Coach team members on guest interaction, speed of service, and sales techniques, ensuring consistency and excellence across all shifts.
• Maintain a visible leadership presence during peak periods, supporting team members on the floor and stepping into service when needed.

Guest Experience & Brand Alignment

• Create a consistent and engaging guest experience across all bar outlets, with a focus on warmth, story-driven beverage presentation, and intuitive service.
• Address guest concerns with discretion and professionalism; lead by example in guest interaction and service recovery.
• Ensure that the beverage program and service standards reflect the Appellation brand’s identity, philosophy, and commitment to meaningful hospitality.

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure all bar operations are in compliance with Sonoma County alcohol laws, health department codes, and brand standards.
• Manage staff certifications in alcohol service (e.g., TIPS, ServSafe) and ensure safe and responsible practices at all times.
• Enforce safety and sanitation practices behind the bar and throughout beverage storage/prep areas.

Qualifications

• 4–6 years of bar or beverage management experience in a luxury hotel, high-volume restaurant, or multi-outlet setting
• Proven ability to lead bar teams, manage multi-outlet beverage operations, and deliver high-end guest experiences
• Advanced knowledge of mixology, spirits, wine, beer, and contemporary bar techniques (clarification, infusions, batching, etc.)
• Strong understanding of beverage cost management, labor planning, and vendor relations
• Experience using POS systems (e.g. Toast or Micros), bar inventory systems, and ordering platforms
• ServSafe and/or TIPS certification required; advanced beverage certifications (WSET, CMS, BarSmarts) a plus
• Excellent communication, leadership, and floor management skills
• Passionate about the intersection of culinary and beverage culture
• Deep appreciation for Sonoma County ingredients, wine, and hospitality traditions
• Calm under pressure, solution-oriented, and hands-on during service
• Naturally collaborative with culinary leadership and service teams
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred

Requirements: