Bar Manager

Bar Manager

Velvet Bar \& Hotel Manchester

Location: Manchester City Centre

Job Type: Full\-time, Permanent

About Us

Velvet Bar \& Hotel is one of Manchester's most iconic hospitality venues, renowned for exceptional guest experiences, premium cocktails, vibrant nightlife, and outstanding service. We are seeking an experienced and passionate Bar Manager to lead our bar team, drive commercial performance, and maintain our reputation as one of the city's premier cocktail destinations.

This is an exciting opportunity for a hands\-on leader who combines operational excellence, financial acumen, and people development skills with a genuine passion for cocktails, flair bartending, and hospitality.

The Role

As Bar Manager, you will take full responsibility for the day\-to\-day management and commercial success of the bar operation. You will lead by example on the floor, inspire and develop your team, manage stock and costs effectively, and ensure every guest receives an exceptional experience.

You will be equally comfortable creating unforgettable cocktails behind the bar, analysing profit margins, recruiting top talent, and coaching your team to achieve their full potential.

Key ResponsibilitiesTeam Leadership, Recruitment \& Training

• Recruit, onboard and retain high\-performing bar staff.


• Conduct interviews and select candidates who align with Velvet's culture and service standards.


• Develop structured training programmes covering service, product knowledge, cocktail techniques and compliance.


• Coach and mentor team members to maximise performance and career development.


• Manage rotas, attendance, performance reviews and disciplinary processes where required.


• Foster a positive, professional and engaging working environment.

Bar Operations

• Lead the daily operation of the bar, ensuring seamless service delivery.


• Maintain the highest standards of guest experience, cleanliness and presentation.


• Ensure compliance with licensing regulations, health \& safety requirements and company policies.


• Drive service excellence during busy periods and lead from the front.

Cocktail \& Beverage Excellence

• Demonstrate exceptional cocktail knowledge and advanced bartending skills.


• Deliver premium cocktail experiences and support new menu development.


• Train team members in cocktail preparation, upselling techniques and guest engagement.


• Bring energy, creativity and flair to the bar operation.


• Stay informed of industry trends and introduce innovative beverage concepts.

Stock Management \& Controls

• Maintain accurate stock control systems.


• Conduct regular stock counts and inventory audits.


• Manage ordering, supplier relationships and product availability.


• Monitor stock variances and implement measures to minimise waste and losses.


• Ensure GP targets are achieved through effective stock management and portion control.

Financial Management

• Manage labour costs, payroll budgets and staffing levels.


• Analyse weekly and monthly sales performance.


• Monitor key financial metrics including revenue, profitability and gross profit margins.


• Identify opportunities to increase sales and improve operational efficiency.


• Work closely with senior management to achieve commercial targets and business objectives.


• Prepare reports and implement action plans to drive performance.

About YouEssential Requirements

• Proven experience as a Bar Manager, Senior Bar Manager or Assistant Bar Manager in a high\-volume premium venue.


• Strong cocktail and spirits knowledge with hands\-on bartending experience.


• Experience recruiting, training and developing successful hospitality teams.


• Excellent stock management and inventory control experience.


• Strong financial awareness, including budgeting, cost control and profit management.


• Exceptional leadership and communication skills.


• Ability to thrive in a fast\-paced environment.


• Personal Licence holder or willingness to obtain one.


• Flexible availability including evenings, weekends and bank holidays.

Desirable

• Flair bartending experience.


• Experience within boutique hotels, premium bars or late\-night venues.


• WSET, cocktail or hospitality management qualifications.


• Experience launching cocktail menus and beverage programmes.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary.


• Career development and progression opportunities.


• Ongoing training and professional development.


• Staff discounts across the business.


• Company pension scheme.


• A dynamic and rewarding working environment in one of Manchester's most recognised hospitality venues.

How to Apply

If you are a passionate hospitality professional with strong leadership skills, commercial awareness, and a genuine love for cocktails, we would love to hear from you.

Apply today and become part of the Velvet Bar \& Hotel team.

Pay: £30,000\.00\-£35,000\.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension


• Employee discount

Work Location: In person

This listing is from Indeed. View original listing ↗