Bar Manager - National Theatre

Compass Group UK & Ireland; London; On-site; GBP 33,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A renowned hospitality provider in London seeks an experienced Bar Manager for The Understudy at the National Theatre. This hands-on role entails overseeing daily operations, inspiring team members, and ensuring an exceptional guest experience. Ideal candidates will have a minimum of 2 years' experience in similar roles and a passion for dynamic, fast-paced environments. The position includes a comprehensive benefits package, including healthcare, annual leave, and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Healthcare & Wellbeing

Exclusive Perks & Discounts

Workplace Benefits

Leave & Family Support

Career & Financial Support

Exclusive National Theatre discounts

Food & drink discounts

Discounted onsite parking

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years' experience in a similar role.
• Experience in high-volume venues is a must.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of The Understudy bar.
• Lead and motivate team members to achieve service excellence.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and health & safety policies.

Skills

Leadership

Customer service

Communication

Tools

EPOS

COSHH regulations

Job description

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Job Introduction

Bar Manager - National Theatre Food and Drink, London

£33,408 per annum plus benefits including 23 days' annual leave + bank holidays, healthcare, discounts, and more.

NT Food & Drink is a unique and dynamic partnership driven by Levy and KERB, embedded within the National Theatre on the South Bank. Our ambition to create a world-class hospitality destination at the heart of the world's most iconic theatre is powered by our progressive people-first approach, centred on environmental and social sustainability. We celebrate inclusivity with purpose, putting the development and progression of our future leader's centre stage. Our shared goal is to ensure all food and drink spaces support the National Theatre's overall values, vision, and culture.

Purpose

We're looking for an enthusiastic and experienced Bar Manager to join our team at the iconic National Theatre. This is a hands-on, floor-based leadership role where you'll oversee the day-to-day operations of our lively riverside bar The Understudy. As a key front-of-house presence, the Bar Manager will support and motivate Team Leaders and Customer Service Advisors to deliver an exceptional hospitality experience for every guest. If you thrive in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment and have a passion for leading teams to success, this is an exciting opportunity to make your mark in one of London's most prestigious venues as our Bar Manager!

Responsibilities:

• Lead from the Front: Act as Bar Manager for The Understudy bar, driving world-class hospitality and supporting daily operations across all departments.
• Inspire and Motivate: Brief, lead, and energise Team Leaders and CSAs, championing service excellence, financial targets, KPIs, and team culture.
• Operational Excellence: Ensure all outlets are fully stocked and visually aligned with brand standards by working closely with warehouse and culinary teams.
• Customer-First Mindset: Monitor the customer journey, address pressure points, and proactively gather and act on feedback to enhance the guest experience.
• Grow and Develop Talent: Lead team inductions, deliver impactful 1-2-1s, and support staff development through coaching, feedback, and training.
• Uphold Standards & Safety: Maintain systems and equipment, escalate maintenance issues, and ensure full compliance with Food Safety and Health & Safety policies.

About You:

• Leadership on the Floor: You lead from the front-present, engaged, and inspiring your team to deliver an outstanding guest experience every time.
• Flexibility: This is a dynamic role that includes evenings, weekends, and bank holidays-ideal for someone who enjoys the buzz of a lively venue.
• Experience that Counts: You'll bring a minimum of 2 years' experience in a similar role and be ready to hit the ground running from day one.
• Hospitality Pro: You've worked in high-volume venues-whether single-site or multi-site-and understand the rhythm and demands of a busy operation.
• Strong Communicator: Whether it's briefing your team or liaising with stakeholders, your written and verbal communication skills are top-notch.
• Bonus Points If You Have:
  • A Personal Licence to support bar operations.
  • Awareness of COSHH regulations to help maintain a safe environment.
  • A Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate-a clear sign of your food safety knowledge.
  • Familiarity with EPOS and procurement systems to keep operations smooth and efficient.

Benefits

• Healthcare & Wellbeing - Medicash health benefits (including dental, mental health & optical for you and up to 4 children), free annual health check with Aviva Digicare, discounts at Nuffield Health & Pure Gym, and access to our Employee Assistance Programme.
• Exclusive Perks & Discounts - Save on entertainment (up to 55% off cinema tickets), shopping (up to 15% off), Vodafone plans, and travel with top providers such as TUI & Expedia.
• Workplace Benefits - Meals on duty, pension scheme, life assurance, and professional subscriptions paid.
• Leave & Family Support - 23 days + bank holidays, your birthday off, extra leave after maternity return, a day off for your baby's 1st birthday, and a holiday purchase scheme.
• Career & Financial Support - Ongoing training & development, career pathways, financial wellbeing programme, and preferred rates on salary finance products.
• Exclusive National Theatre discounts (15% off outlets, 25% off Bookshop, complimentary show tickets)
• Food & drink discounts (Kerb Card: 50% off drinks, 20% off food at Seven Dials Market)
• VIP last-minute O2 show tickets (subject to availability)
• Discounted onsite parking (£4/day)

Who are Levy?

Levy, part of Compass Group, known for delivering exceptional food, drink, and hospitality experiences at world-renowned venues such as Wimbledon, Twickenham, and Tottenham Hotspur. Focused on sustainability, diversity, and inclusion, Levy prides itself on using sustainably sourced ingredients and providing outstanding service. The company is committed to achieving Net Zero by 2027, partnering with the British Paralympic Association, and ensuring all team members earn at least the Real Living Wage or London Living Wage.

Why Join Us?

At Levy UK & Ireland, we celebrate diversity and foster inclusion, valuing every individual's unique strengths. Our diverse team fuels creativity, innovation, and success. We promote fairness, ensure all voices are heard, and provide equal opportunities for all.

We welcome candidates from all backgrounds to join us in creating a supportive, equitable workplace where everyone can thrive and contribute. Together, we achieve greatness.