What does a Bar Manager do?
A Bar Manager oversees a bar’s staff as well as the operations of a bar. They are essential for companies that want to serve delicious cocktails and run successful establishments. Bar Managers often deal with customer complaints, employee coordination, and proper local liquor and foodservice handling regulations. Bar Managers are in charge of looking after the cleaning of the premises, of food and drink preparation, of following the company budget, and any other tasks that subordinates do not have time to complete. Some Bar Managers also plan and create promotional campaigns on social media to attract customers.
Bar Manager skills and qualifications
Successful Bar Managers are friendly, polite, and professional. They can interact with many different people, resolve conflicts, and encourage customers to have fun. Bar Managers may need to stand for long periods of time and help with physical work like moving boxes. Some bars and restaurants require uniforms or specific dress codes. Top skills and qualifications for Bar Managers include:
- Excellent customer service skills
- Written and verbal communication skills
- Basic math and accounting skills
- An understanding of food safety and the ways that viruses and bacteria can spread
- Knowledge of mixology, and how to make traditional cocktails and create new ones
- Familiarity with provincial or territorial liquor laws
Bar Manager experience requirements
Bar Manager jobs usually require at least a year of experience working at a bar or a restaurant. Some positions may require some management experience as well.
Bar Manager education and training requirements
Most Bar Manager jobs require a secondary school diploma. Some look for applicants with an associate’s degree in food and beverage service management or hospitality. Others prefer someone who has completed a bartending course or bartending school. In some areas, Bar Managers must be certified to serve food and alcohol. On-the-job training is usually required as well.
Bar Manager salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Bar Manager is $17.98 per hour. Individual pay levels vary depending on education, experience, the type of establishment, and the location.
Job description samples for similar positions
If a Bar Manager isn’t exactly what your company is looking for, some similar job description samples include: