Event Operations and Bar Manager

IX Arts Foundation; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A cultural organization is looking for a Bar & Museum Operations Manager to lead daily operations at The Looking Glass and IX Art Park. This key role involves ensuring safe and efficient service in both the bar and immersive art museum, supervising staff, and managing event logistics. The ideal candidate has strong leadership skills, experience in hospitality, and a commitment to providing exceptional guest service.

Qualifications

• 2+ years experience in bar, hospitality, or operations management.
• Strong leadership skills in a dynamic environment.
• Working knowledge of ABC compliance and safety protocols.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the bar and museum.
• Manage staff training and performance evaluations.
• Lead pre-event staff briefings to ensure venue readiness.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organization

Problem-solving

Tools

POS systems

Job description

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The Bar & Museum Operations Manager plays a key leadership role at The Looking Glass and IX Art Park, overseeing the day-to-day operations of both the bar and immersive art museum. This position ensures smooth and safe operations, high standards of guest service, and effective coordination of staff and resources across both areas. The Manager also serves as a Manager on Duty during public events and private rentals.

Key Responsibilities

Bar Operations

• Open and close the bar according to established procedures; ensure all staff are trained and updated on any changes.
• Oversee the cleanliness and organization of the bar and kitchen areas; ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Monitor and document inventory weekly; coordinate orders and deliveries with vendors and distributors.
• Maintain accurate records in the POS system (Square) and ensure proper cash handling and deposit procedures.
• Ensure compliance with ABC and all state/local alcohol service laws, including staff certifications and documentation.
• Collaborate with marketing and creative teams to develop and promote seasonal drinks, specials, and bar programming.

Museum Operations

• Oversee daily operations of The Looking Glass immersive art museum, ensuring a clean, welcoming, and well-maintained environment.
• Supervise the Museum Team (concierges, bartenders, and event staff) to ensure quality guest service and adherence to procedures.
• Ensure staff are completing shift duties including opening/closing tasks, daily reset, reporting, and maintaining safety protocols.
• Support inclusivity and accessibility throughout the space.
• Help manage inventory of non-beverage supplies (cleaning, art materials, signage, merchandise, etc.).
• Maintain operational checklists, internal signage, and ensure museum readiness for all events.

Manager on Duty (MOD) for Events and Rentals

• Lead pre-event staff briefings and ensure venue readiness (bar, sound, lighting, security).
• Oversee vendor, performer, and partner logistics during events and private rentals.
• Monitor crowd flow and safety; coordinate with security and respond to emergencies as needed.
• Ensure timely breakdown, cleanup, and reset of spaces post-event.

Staff Supervision

• Hire, onboard, schedule, and offboard Museum Team members as needed.
• Provide real-time coaching and structured performance feedback.
• Conduct regular team meetings and ongoing training in customer service, safety, upselling, and operational standards.
• Work with ED to evaluate staff performance and make recommendations for raises or role adjustments.
• Review weekly and monthly sales and cost reports with the Executive Director.
• Ensure accurate inventory tracking, reconciliation of deposits, and maintenance of vendor records.
• Help identify cost-saving opportunities and improve operational efficiency.
• Contribute to ongoing development of internal documents including the staff handbook, onboarding materials, and emergency plans.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in bar, hospitality, or operations management.
• Strong leadership skills and ability to manage a diverse team in a dynamic environment.
• Experience with POS systems (Square preferred), inventory management, and event oversight.
• Working knowledge of ABC compliance, health codes, and safety protocols.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
• TIPS and Crowd Management certification (or ability to obtain).
• Must be available to work evenings, weekends, and during events.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs.
• Comfortable standing for extended periods and working in both indoor and outdoor settings.

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Management and Manufacturing

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