Job Description
We are seeking an experienced, hands-on Bar Manager to lead a busy late-night venue. This is a great opportunity for a confident leader who thrives in high-volume, fast-paced environments and can drive standards, profitability and a motivated team.
Role Overview
This is a hands-on Bar Manager position within a fast-paced nightlife environment, ideal for an experienced Bar Manager or Assistant Manager with strong late-night experience.
Key responsibilities
- Lead and manage the bar team across all shifts; recruit, train, coach and develop staff to deliver outstanding service
- Plan and manage staff rotas, ensuring effective cover for peak late-night periods while controlling labour costs
- Oversee day-to-day bar operations during busy service, maintaining high standards of speed, quality and customer care
- Manage stock control, ordering and inventory processes to minimise waste and optimise GP
- Monitor sales, margins and KPIs; implement measures to protect and grow profitability
- Ensure strict cash handling, till reconciliation and financial controls
- Maintain compliance with licensing, health & safety and age-restriction requirements
- Work with marketing/promotions to drive covers and events, supporting successful late-night programming
- Resolve customer issues and handle incidents professionally, liaising with security where necessary
Skills and experience required
- Previous experience as a Bar Manager or Assistant Manager in a busy bar or nightclub
- Proven background in late-night, high-volume environments with peak service demand
- Strong leadership and team management skills with a track record of building high-performing teams
- Solid understanding of stock control, GP (gross profit) management and labour cost control
- Excellent organisational skills, resilience under pressure and a can-do attitude
- Strong numeracy and commercial awareness
- Good communication skills and a focus on delivering memorable customer experiences
Salary & Benefits
- Salary up to £40,000 per year (depending on experience)
- Performance bonus up to £10,000
- Company pension
- Two full days off per week (venue closed Mondays)
Working Hours
- Typically 40-45 hours per week
- 3 shifts: 8pm-1am
- Friday: 8pm-3am
- Saturday: up to 12-hour shift (finishing at 3am)
- Additional staff available to assist with opening and closing duties
- Daytime responsibilities required to support ongoing operations
