Bar Manager

The Chapel bar; City Of London; On-site; GBP 39,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

A private hire event venue in Islington is seeking an experienced Bar Manager to oversee bar operations and manage staff during various private events. The ideal candidate will have at least 2 years of experience, excellent communication skills, and a strong leadership presence. The role offers a competitive salary of £39,500 to £41,500 per year, plus a performance-related bonus.

Benefits

Performance-related bonus

Competitive salary

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years’ experience as a Bar Manager.
• Good knowledge of beer, wine, and cocktails.
• Strong leadership skills and ability to manage teams.

Responsibilities

• Oversee bar operations for various private events.
• Manage banking, cash handling, and P&L accountability.
• Lead and motivate bar staff to ensure high service standards.

Skills

Event management

Excellent communication

Leadership skills

Stock control

Job description

Overview

Bar Manager – The Chapel Bar, Islington. The Chapel Bar is a private hire venue in the heart of Islington, catering exclusively for private events – from birthdays and anniversaries to weddings, corporate functions, and everything in between.

We are seeking a capable and experienced Bar Manager to take responsibility for the smooth running of the venue during these events. This is a hands-on leadership role that requires excellent organisational ability, a customer-focused approach, and the confidence to manage both people and operations to the highest standard. The right candidate will have great organisational skills, a can-do attitude, strong customer-facing ability, and some experience in event management. You must also be prepared to roll up your sleeves and get involved to make things happen when required.

Responsibilities

• Oversee bar operations for a variety of private events, ensuring service runs seamlessly.
• Work closely with event organisers to deliver a first-class guest experience.
• Lead, motivate, and manage bar staff, setting high standards and maintaining team morale.
• Maintain strong stock control, GP management, and compliance with licensing and health & safety requirements.
• Manage banking, cash handling, P&L accountability, and rota planning.
• Act as a visible and confident presence on the floor, engaging with both staff and customers.

Requirements

• Clearly spoken English language; this includes writing, spelling, grammar, and articulation.
• Minimum 2 years’ proven experience as a Bar Manager (event management experience desirable).
• Good knowledge of beer, wine, and cocktails.
• Understanding of banking, P&L, and rota planning.
• Excellent stock control and cost management.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills.
• A confident, approachable, and outgoing personality.
• Strong leadership skills, with the ability to stay calm and effective under pressure.
• High attention to detail and a drive to meet and exceed customer expectations.
• High attention to developing the business and understanding management development to enhance staff development.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary (depending on experience and ability).
• Performance-related bonus scheme.
• Opportunity to work in a prestigious private hire venue with a strong reputation for delivering first-class events.

How to Apply

If you believe you have the skills, experience, and drive to succeed in this role, we’d love to hear from you.

Experience: Required
Languages: English – Advanced
Employment: Full-time
Schedule: We work 5 days various hours
Salary: £39,500 – £41,500 yearly
Benefits: Tip plus performance related bonus

About The Chapel bar: The chapel bar is an event venue based near Angel and has been established for 20 years.