Head Bartender

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About Fairmont Hotels & Resorts: At Fairmont Hotels & Resorts we offer our guests the finest hospitality experience in each of our destinations. We know that to offer our guests the best, we first need to offer our employees the best. That is why you'll find exceptional work opportunities-throughout North America and the Caribbean, Europe and Africa, the Middle East and Asia Pacific-as well as industry-leading training, career development, recognition and rewards, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is a celebrated collection of hotels that included landmark locations like London's The Savoy, New York's The Plaza and Shanghai's Fairmont Peace Hotel. Our teams are guided by values of Respect, Integrity, Teamwork and Empowerment: we employ the highest ethical and quality standards, treating all colleagues with fairness and dignity. A community and environmental leader, Fairmont is also regarded for responsible tourism practices and award-winning Green Partnership program. An exciting future awaits!

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Cape Grace, A Fairmont Managed Hotel, sits on a private quay at Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront — one of the most coveted addresses in African luxury hospitality. With 113 keys, Two MICHELIN Keys and the Condé Nast Traveller Triple Crown, Cape Grace is recognised globally as a benchmark of intimate five-star luxury. It is a property with a distinct personality, a loyal international following and an ambition to be counted among the best in the world.

Position Scope:

The Head Bartender is responsible for curating and leading a world-class bar experience that reflects the standards and identity of the hotel brand. The role oversees all aspects of bar operations, ensuring exceptional guest service, beverage quality, operational efficiency, and commercial performance.

The Head Bartender drives innovation through the development of signature beverage programmes, premium product offerings, and memorable guest experiences while maintaining the highest standards of presentation, consistency, and luxury service.

Responsibilities:

• Supervise, train, and develop the bar team to ensure they consistently deliver high-quality service and adhere to operational standards.
• Maintain a positive and motivated team environment through coaching, mentoring, and feedback.
• Oversee daily bar operations, ensuring efficient service and timely delivery of drinks to guests.

Responsibilities:

• Supervise, train, and develop the bar team to ensure they consistently deliver high-quality service and adhere to operational standards.
• Maintain a positive and motivated team environment through coaching, mentoring, and feedback.
• Oversee daily bar operations, ensuring efficient service and timely delivery of drinks to guests.

Beverage Expertise & Innovation:

• Develop and curate creative cocktail menus that align with the restaurant's concept and guest preferences.
• Keep up to date with the latest trends in the beverage industry, including new cocktail styles, spirits, and mixology techniques.
• Ensure that bartenders are knowledgeable about the beverage menu, including drink ingredients, preparation techniques, and ideal pairings.
• Provide recommendations to guests on specialty cocktails, wines, and other beverages.

         Guest Service Excellence:

• Ensure that all guests receive a memorable experience through personalized service, attention to detail, and an engaging approach.
• Handle guest complaints or concerns promptly and professionally, ensuring swift resolution while maintaining high levels of guest satisfaction.
• Foster strong relationships with regular guests, understanding their preferences and ensuring personalized service.

      Inventory & Stock Management:

• Oversee bar inventory, ensuring that the necessary supplies are stocked, including spirits, wine, and other beverages.
• Coordinate with purchasing and suppliers to maintain stock levels, track usage, and order supplies as needed.
• Conduct regular inventory checks and manage stock rotation to prevent wastage and ensure cost-effective use of resources.

      Health & Safety Compliance:

• Enforce all health, safety, and hygiene standards in the bar area, ensuring compliance with local regulations and internal policies.
• Ensure the bar area is kept clean, organized, and safe for both staff and guests at all times.
• Supervise the safe handling of alcohol, including monitoring guest consumption and preventing over-service.

      Upselling & Revenue Generation:

• Promote upselling of premium spirits, cocktails, and wine selections to enhance guest satisfaction and increase bar revenue.
• Introduce innovative drink specials or themed promotions to boost sales and attract guests.

          Administration & Reporting:

• Manage daily cash handling, including the accurate processing of payments, tips, and transactions.
• Prepare daily, weekly, and monthly reports related to bar sales, inventory, and staff performance.
• Collaborate with management on budgeting, cost control, and revenue generation strategies.

Training & Development:

• Conduct regular training sessions for bar staff to improve product knowledge, service standards, and mixology skills.
• Ensure that all staff are well-versed in customer service practices, health and safety standards, and company policies.

      Special Events & Promotions:

• Plan and coordinate bar events, promotions, and themed nights to increase guest engagement and revenue.

Work closely with other departments (e.g., marketing and events) to organize and execute special events that feature signature cocktails or exclusive beverages.

      Problem Resolution & Continuous Improvement:

• Proactively address and resolve operational challenges, ensuring the team stays focused on providing excellent service.
• Collect and act on guest feedback to continuously improve the quality of service and experience.
• Identify areas for improvement in processes and service, providing suggestions for enhancements to the management team.

       Additional Responsibilities:

• Perform any other duties or responsibilities as assigned by management to support the effective operation of the department and the broader goals of the property.
• Represent the bar and brand with professionalism at local and international industry events, trade shows, competitions, and partner engagements, fostering strong relationships within the global hospitality community while consistently demonstrating exemplary conduct, integrity, and brand ambassadorship.

Only candidates who are South African citizens, permanent residents, or who hold a valid and current authorisation to work in South Africa will be considered for this position. Cape Grace, A Fairmont Managed Hotel, does not sponsor work visas and will not enter into any visa application process on behalf of applicants for this role.

• Experience: Minimum of 1-2 years in a supervisory role in bar operations, preferably in a high-end bar / restaurant or a luxury hospitality environment. Extensive knowledge of mixology, spirits, wines, and cocktail preparation.
• Education: Grade 12 minimum
• Qualification in hospitality management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Professional bartending, mixology or beverage certifications are highly advantageous.

EMPLOYMENT EQUITY  

We as a company are committed to diversity and inclusion. Our Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered during the recruitment process. We welcome applications from individuals with disabilities and diverse backgrounds.