Head Bartender

The Fife Arms; Ballater; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Join the award-winning team at The Fife Arms as a Head Bartender in Elsa’s Cocktail Bar, a high-end venue nestled in the Cairngorms National Park. This role offers the opportunity to lead a passionate team and create exquisite cocktails while providing exceptional guest experiences. Enjoy a range of employee benefits, including generous holiday, health benefits, and career development opportunities.

Benefits

30 days holiday (pro rata)

Annual guest experience stay for you + 1

Free meals and drinks on shift

Generous discounts across all Artfarm properties

Health benefits, pension & life assurance

Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

Sports & social events

Tailored career development opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Head Bartender or Mixologist in a high-end environment.
• Expert knowledge of cocktails and spirits.
• Strong leadership and mentoring skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the bartending team in delivering high-quality drinks and service.
• Curate and craft cocktails using top-tier Scottish spirits.
• Mentor junior bartenders and elevate guest experiences.

Skills

Leadership

Mixology

Communication

Creativity

Attention to Detail

Job description

Join Our Award-Winning Team at The Fife Arms!

Position: Head Bartender – Elsa’s Cocktail Bar
Braemar, Cairngorms National Park | Full-Time | Live-In Available

Recently named Aberdeen City & Shire Hospitality Employer of the Year, honoured with 2 Michelin Keys, and rated #1 by Condé Nast Readers' Choice, The Fife Arms Hotel is no ordinary destination. Nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, our historic hotel blends heritage, art, and world-class hospitality into an unforgettable guest experience.

We are now seeking a Head Bartender to lead the charge in Elsa’s Cocktail Bar — our glamorous Art Deco-inspired hideaway paying homage to the iconic fashion designer Elsa Schiaparelli. Known for its striking aesthetic, beautifully crafted cocktails, and exceptional service, Elsa’s is the Highlands’ ultimate cocktail destination.

About the Role

As Head Bartender, you will:

• Lead our passionate team in delivering high-quality drinks and seamless service.
• Curate and craft cocktails using top-tier Scottish spirits and artisanal ingredients.
• Share your knowledge to mentor and inspire junior bartenders.
• Elevate the guest experience with flair, warmth, and creativity.

What We’re Looking For

Our ideal candidate will have:

• Proven experience as a Head Bartender or Mixologist in a high-end, boutique environment.
• Expert knowledge of cocktails, spirits, and mixology trends.
• Strong leadership, communication, and mentoring skills.
• A passion for creativity, storytelling through service, and exceeding guest expectations.
• A high standard of professionalism and attention to detail.
• The right to work in the UK - visa sponsorship is not available for this role.

What’s in It for You?

We take great pride in supporting our team. Enjoy:

• 30 days holiday (pro rata)
• Annual guest experience stay for you + 1
• Free meals and drinks on shift
• Generous discounts across all Artfarm properties (UK, US, Europe)
• Health benefits, pension & life assurance
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
• Sports & social events
• Tailored career development opportunities

About The Fife Arms & Artfarm

Artfarm is an independent hospitality company blending art, people, and place. With award-winning destinations across the UK, US, and Europe, we deliver experiences that go far beyond hospitality. The Fife Arms features 46 individually designed bedrooms, several unique dining concepts, a whisky bar, spa, and bespoke event spaces — each steeped in storytelling and local heritage.