Head Mixologist & Bar Manager

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health coverage

Employee discounts

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Head Mixologist & Bar Manager in Cape Town to lead the beverage program across outlets. The role requires deep knowledge of spirits, wine, and craft cocktails, with strong leadership and operational skills in a high-volume environment.

You will manage inventory, staffing, cost controls, and signature drink creation while driving guest experiences and staying ahead of industry trends.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years in mixology and bar management with supervisory experience.
• Demonstrated creativity in cocktail creation and menu development.
• Extensive knowledge of spirits, liqueurs, wine, beer, and trends.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement innovative cocktail menus and wine lists.
• Lead and train the bar team to deliver exceptional service.
• Oversee inventory, ordering, stocktaking, and waste reduction.
• Ensure health, safety, and sanitation standards are met.
• Monitor sales, manage budgets, and achieve targets.
• Develop unique beverage experiences and events.

Skills

Mixology

Bar management

Leadership

Creativity

POS systems

Inventory software

Tools

POS systems

Inventory management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a critically acclaimed and trendsetting establishment in the heart of Cape Town, Western Cape, is searching for an innovative and experienced Head Mixologist & Bar Manager. This pivotal role will lead the conceptualization, development, and execution of our beverage program across multiple outlets, ensuring an unparalleled guest experience. The successful candidate will be a master of their craft, possessing a deep knowledge of spirits, wine, and craft cocktails, coupled with strong leadership and operational management skills. This position is perfect for a creative visionary who thrives in a fast-paced, high-volume environment and is passionate about setting new standards in the Cape Town beverage scene. You will be responsible for the entire bar operation, from inventory and staffing to signature drink creation and cost control.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement innovative and profitable cocktail menus, spirit selections, and wine lists.
• Lead and train the bar team, fostering a culture of excellence, creativity, and exceptional customer service.
• Manage all aspects of bar operations, including inventory control, ordering, stocktaking, and waste reduction.
• Ensure adherence to all health, safety, and sanitation standards.
• Monitor bar performance, track sales, and manage budgets to achieve financial targets.
• Curate unique beverage experiences and promotional events.
• Maintain professional relationships with suppliers and explore new product sourcing.
• Uphold the establishment's reputation for quality and innovation in beverage offerings.
• Conduct regular team meetings and provide ongoing coaching and performance feedback.
• Stay abreast of industry trends and competitor activities.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in mixology and bar management, with a significant portion in a supervisory or leadership role.
• Demonstrated creativity in cocktail creation and menu development.
• Extensive knowledge of spirits, liqueurs, wine, beer, and current cocktail trends.
• Proven experience in managing bar inventory, cost control, and P&L statements.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and team-building skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Strong understanding of health and safety regulations within the hospitality industry.
• Experience with POS systems and beverage inventory management software is essential.
• Passion for hospitality and a commitment to delivering outstanding guest experiences in Cape Town.
• Certification from a recognized mixology program is a plus.

Benefits

• competitive salary, supplemented by a performance-based incentive program.
• health coverage.
• generous employee discounts.
• opportunities for continued professional development and education.
• the chance to be a key player in one of Cape Town's most exciting culinary destinations.

You will have the creative freedom to shape the future of our beverage program.