Beverage Training & Development Lead

Galgorm Collection; Ballymena; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A bar operation group in Northern Ireland is seeking an experienced Bar Operations Manager to support the growth of their bar services at various venues. This role involves hands-on training delivery, overseeing beverage menu development, and ensuring high standards across the board. Ideal candidates will possess strong cocktail knowledge, effective leadership skills, and a passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences. Opportunities for professional development and creativity in menu innovation are included in this dynamic position.

Qualifications

• Strong cocktail and spirits knowledge, with experience of designing and costing cocktail menus at scale.
• Ability to work across multiple venues and manage varied priorities.

Responsibilities

• Support the growth and excellence of bar operations across all venues.
• Lead, organise, and deliver Bar Academy training sessions.
• Oversee the creation and rollout of drinks menus.

Skills

Strong leadership and communication skills

Creative approach to menu development and presentation

Excellent organisational skills

High attention to detail

Passion for hospitality and training

Job description

About the role;We are seeking an organised, creative, and standards-driven person to support the continued growth and excellence of our bar operations across all venues. This role will combine hands on training delivery with the oversight of beverage menu development, ensuring consistently high standards and an exceptional guest experience.Main duties will include but are not limited to.Bar Training and Development.Ensure compliance with licensing, responsible service of alcohol, brand usage guidelines and internal SOPs across all supplier funded activity and bar operations.

Responsibilities

• Strong cocktail and spirits knowledge, with experience of designing and costing cocktail menus at scale.
• Strong communication and training delivery skills; confident in leading tastings, workshops and presentations.
• Acts as a visible, positive presence in the bars, celebrating team successes and championing bartender growth and recognition.
• Continue to lead, organise, and deliver Bar Academy training sessions for new and existing team members to support staff progression, product knowledge, and service excellence.
• Mentor and support bar staff to uphold best practice in beverage preparation, presentation, and guest service.
• Identify, promote and manage bartender participation in national and global competitions.
• Create an internal calendar of in house cocktail challenges, menu development workshops and recognition initiatives to drive engagement, retention and healthy competition among bar teams.
• Menu & Beverage Development.
• Oversee the creation, coordination, and rollout of drinks menus across all venues.
• Develop themed or seasonal drink offerings and ensure each venue maintains a dynamic and engaging beverage selection.
• Refresh and innovate cocktail menus, ensuring drinks reflect current trends and brand standards.
• Glassware & Presentation Standards.
• Review, update, and standardise glassware across venues to ensure alignment with drink styles and enhanced guest experience.
• Source appropriate glassware for specific cocktails and signature serves.
• Operational Support.
• Conduct regular venue walkarounds and quality checks to ensure drinks are prepared consistently and meet established standards.
• Ensure all bar teams follow agreed recipes, presentation guidelines, and operational procedures.
• Assist with supplier communication, product selection, and stock considerations where relevant.
• Undertake other duties in line with the role to support overall bar performance and guest satisfaction.
• Track key bar KPIs across the collection, including mix of sales, average check, cocktail margin, pour cost, wastage and supplier rebate.

Skills and Qualifications

• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Creative approach to menu development and presentation.
• Excellent organisational skills and high attention to detail.
• Ability to work across multiple venues and manage varied priorities.
• Passion for hospitality, training, and delivering exceptional guest experiences.

Area: Republic of Ireland
Closing date: 20 Dec 2025