| Location | Staunton, VA |
Our client is seeking an experienced Beverage Manager with a strong background in bartending, mixology, wine, and beverage operations. This position is responsible for leading the restaurants beverage program, developing creative cocktails, managing the wine program, training staff, maintaining inventory and cost controls, and supporting a polished and knowledgeable bar team. The ideal candidate combines strong beverage expertise with a passion for hospitality and an understanding of an upscale, farm-to-table dining environment.
Responsibilities:
Lead and oversee beverage program, including wine, spirits, beer, and cocktails.
Create and execute a distinctive cocktail program with seasonal, well-balanced drinks that complement client's menu and brand.
Demonstrate strong mixology skills and maintain high standards for cocktail preparation, presentation, consistency, and bar service.
Maintain strong knowledge of wine, including varietals, regions, vintages, producers, food pairings, and proper wine service.
Maintain the wine list in collaboration with restaurant leadership, ensuring a balanced selection that complements the menu and meets sales and cost goals.
Conduct ongoing wine and beverage training for front-of-house staff to strengthen product knowledge, service, and sales.
Manage wine, beer, and liquor ordering, receiving, storage, and organization while maintaining appropriate par levels.
Complete and manage monthly beverage inventory, ensuring accurate counts and reporting for wine, beer, spirits, and bar supplies.
Monitor beverage costs, pricing, sales, product mix, waste, and purchasing to support profitability and cost efficiency.
Assist in marketing efforts, including participation of video and audio content.
Build and maintain strong relationships with wine and spirits distributors, suppliers, and other beverage vendors.
Assist with recruiting, interviewing, hiring, onboarding, and training bartenders.
Coach and develop bartenders to ensure consistent execution, product knowledge, responsible alcohol service, and exceptional hospitality.
Maintain bar organization, cleanliness, equipment, glassware, and appropriate supply levels.
Stay current on wine, spirits, cocktail, and beverage industry trends through ongoing education and professional development.
Work closely with the Executive Chef and restaurant leadership on beverage pairings, special dinners, events, promotions, and seasonal menu changes.
Ensure compliance with Virginia ABC requirements, responsible alcohol service standards, and company policies.
Build positive relationships with guests and team members and consistently model an exceptional, upscale guest experience.
Perform additional duties as assigned.
Qualifications & Skills:
Experience in an upscale, full-service restaurant; farm-to-table experience a plus.
3-5 years of bartending and bar experience, with strong mixology skills including cocktail development and execution.
Strong wine knowledge and confidence training staff on wine, pairings, and service.
Previous beverage management, bar management, or comparable leadership experience preferred.
Experience with beverage purchasing inventory management, pricing, and cost controls.
Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to train, coach, and develop a team.
Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities.
Strong passion for hospitality and creating memorable guest experiences.
Industry-related wine, spirits, or beverage certification/education is a plus.
Compensation & Benefits:
Competitive salary with performance-based bonuses.
Medical benefits per company plan.
Paid time off.
Note: This job description outlines essential responsibilities but is not all-encompassing. Additional duties may be required based on business needs. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities. Employment is at-will, and this document does not constitute an employment contract.