Head Bartender

Aethos; Greater London; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health & wellbeing

Wellbeing apps

Holiday allowance

Learning & development

Season Ticket Loan

Gym discounts

Volunteer days

Job summary

Aethos London Shoreditch is seeking a Head Bartender to oversee daily bar operations in a premium, high-volume setting in East London. You will lead the bar team, craft innovative beverages, manage stock levels, and maintain exceptional guest service.

The role requires fluent English, proven leadership in upscale venues, and formal mixology knowledge. You will develop the bar menu, train staff, and contribute to seasonal offerings while upholding safety and brand standards.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as Head Bartender in premium high-volume venues.
• Excellent knowledge of classic and contemporary cocktails, spirits, wines, and non-alcoholic beverages.
• Fluent in English and able to communicate with guests and the team clearly.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily bar operations to ensure smooth and efficient service.
• Lead and develop the bar team to achieve high performance.
• Create and update the bar menu with innovative beverage ideas and seasonal offerings.
• Manage bar inventory, ordering, receiving, and stocking supplies.

Skills

Cocktails knowledge

Leadership

Customer service

Fluent English

Education

Formal mixology training

Job description

Aethos London Shoreditch is our bold debut in one of the world’s most creative cities. In the heart of East London, the hotel blends Aethos’ signature style with Shoreditch’s vibrant energy, offering eclectic design, inspiring social spaces, and a strong community spirit.

Join the Aethos family and help shape a new standard in hospitality one that celebrates connection, creativity, and a true sense of place. With properties across Europe and new openings on the horizon, Aethos is a growing community of passionate people.

Aethos London Shoreditch isn’t just a place to work it’s a place to grow, thrive, and make an impact in one of London’s most exciting neighbourhoods.

Role Purpose / Scope

The Head Bartender is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the bar, ensuring exceptional service and consistently high standards of hospitality. This role leads the bar team, creates innovative and high-quality beverages, manages inventory and stock levels, and upholds a dynamic and engaging bar environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily bar operations to ensure smooth and efficient service.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures for the bar.
• Ensure all beverages are prepared and served to the highest quality standards.
• Create innovative and appealing beverage recipes.
• Develop and update the bar menu regularly to reflect current trends and seasonal offerings.
• Conduct tastings and staff training on new beverages.
• Provide exceptional customer service and ensure guests have a memorable experience.
• Address and resolve any guest complaints or issues promptly and professionally.
• Engage with guests to gather feedback and make improvements to the bar service.
• Lead, mentor, and motivate the bar team to achieve high performance.
• Conduct regular training sessions to improve team skills and knowledge.
• Manage bar inventory, including ordering, receiving, and stocking supplies.
• Maintain a clean and organized bar area.
• Implement and enforce policies and procedures to ensure a safe working environment.
• Stay updated on industry trends and new products.

Requirements & Qualifications

Mandatory:

• Lawful permanent resident, eligible to work in the UK
• Proven experience as Head Bartender in a premium, high-volume lifestyle bar or hotel venue
• Strong knowledge of classic and contemporary cocktails, spirits, wines, and non-alcoholic beverages
• Fluent in English

Preferred:

• Formal training or certification in mixology or bartending
• Knowledge of Japanese spirits and beverages such as sake, shochu, and Japanese whisky

Employment Type & Working Conditions

• Full-time
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays

BENEFITS OF JOINING OUR TEAM

• Health Assured & Wisdom app, our 24/7 employee assistance programme with access to a health and wellbeing resources, and a variety of great discounts!
• Access to Wellable – a physical wellbeing app including company wide challenges.
• Financial wellbeing support, including access to Stream.
• Up to 33 days holiday a year (increasing with length of service).
• Exciting learning and development programmes to help progress your career, including apprenticeships and career mapping.
• An amazing overnight Guest Experience here at Aethos London Shoreditch for you and a guest
• Mental Health First Aiders within the team to offer tailored support.
• Season Ticket Loan, Cycle to Work and discounted Gym memberships.
• Annual festive and summer social events, charity fundraising days and committees to join, including paid volunteering days.

All applicants must be eligible to live and work in the United Kingdom. Documented evidence of eligibility will be required.