Head Bartender

Arcade; Greater London; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Refer a friend bonus

Internal wage advance facility

Delicious seasonal meals

Birthday budget

Staff chill out areas

Balanced rotas

50% off food in Arcade restaurants

50% off food in JKS restaurants

Counselling and wellbeing support

Hospitality Action support

Team parties

Job summary

Arcade is hiring a Head Bartender for our new Tottenham Court Road venue in London. You will lead the bar team, coach bartenders, manage service flow, and uphold drink quality from open to close.

You’ll set the tone on shift, train staff, and drive performance while delivering memorable guest experiences. The ideal candidate has senior bartender or supervisor experience in high-volume venues, strong cocktail knowledge, and a proactive, hands-on leadership style.

Qualifications

• Senior Bartender / Supervisor / Head Bartender experience in a fast-paced venue.
• Strong cocktail knowledge with attention to detail and consistency.
• Proven ability to train and develop team members.
• Understanding of stock control, cost management and operational efficiency.

Responsibilities

• Lead bar service with energy, precision and pace.
• Coach bartenders and barbacks on shift to drive performance.
• Oversee bar setup, service flow, and stock management.
• Maintain high standards of drink quality, presentation and cleanliness.
• Run the bar in the Bar Manager’s absence and uphold safety standards.

Skills

Leadership

Cocktail knowledge

Training & coaching

High‑volume service

Job description

Join Our Bar Team – Bring The Energy, Craft The Drinks, Shape The Experience!

About Arcade

Arcade is one of the UK’s most ambitious and exciting hospitality projects — a dynamic playground where world‑class chefs, bold culinary ideas, and vibrant guest experiences come together under one roof. As a brand incubator, we launch, operate, and scale original concepts that celebrate global cuisines and exceptional drink culture.

About The Role

We’re looking for a confident, experienced and hands‑on Head Bartender to join the opening team at one of London’s most exciting new venues — Arcade Tottenham Court Road.

As a key leader within the bar team, you will work closely with the Bar Manager to deliver exceptional drink quality, fast‑paced service, and an unforgettable guest experience. You’ll lead from the front, setting the tone on shift while supporting the development of your team and ensuring the bar runs smoothly from open to close.

Working Closely With The Bar Manager, You Will

• Lead bar service with energy, precision and pace, ensuring every drink meets our standards
• Support and coach bartenders and barbacks on shift, driving performance and confidence
• Oversee bar setup, organisation and service flow to ensure seamless operations
• Maintain high standards of drink quality, presentation, and cleanliness at all times
• Assist with stock control, ordering, and minimising waste
• Deliver engaging guest experiences through product knowledge and recommendations
• Support onboarding and training, helping to build a knowledgeable and motivated team
• Step up to run the bar in the absence of the Bar Manager or Assistant Bar Manager
• Uphold all Food Safety, Health & Safety, and hygiene standards

We’d Love To Hear From You If You

• Have proven experience as a Senior Bartender, Supervisor or Head Bartender in a high-volume, quality-led venue
• Thrive in a fast-paced environment and lead by example during busy services
• Have strong cocktail knowledge with excellent attention to detail and consistency
• Are confident training and developing team members on bar skills and service standards
• Understand stock control, cost management, and operational efficiency
• Bring a positive, energetic leadership style that motivates those around you
• Are passionate about hospitality and creating memorable guest experiences
• Have excellent organisational skills and can stay calm under pressure
• Are proactive, hands‑on, and always ready to jump in where needed

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

Benefits Of Being Part Of The Team

Your commitment to be kind and work hard comes with a range of benefits such as:

• Refer a friend bonus
• Internal wage advance facility to instantly access the wages you’ve earned
• Delicious, seasonal meals when you’re at work
• A restaurant recognition budget for Birthday goodies and career milestones
• Dedicated staff chill out areas with kitchens and your own seating off the restaurant floor
• Balanced rotas. Your time outside of work is important to us
• 50% off food in our restaurants for you and your loved ones
• 50% off food in JKS restaurants within Arcade for you and your loved ones
• Access to counselling, remote GP/physio services, legal advice and more through
• Hospitality Action 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year
• Summer and Christmas team parties where we all down tools and have some fun!