Job Description

Job Description

Job Summary

At  Appellation Healdsburg , we believe that the bar is not just a place to serve drinks—it is a stage for storytelling, connection, and craftsmanship. We are seeking a dedicated and highly skilled Manager of Bars to oversee the performance, culture, and creativity of our multi-outlet beverage program. This includes the day-to-day operations of our signature restaurant bar, rooftop/pool bar, lounge, in-room dining beverage offerings, and event bar execution.

The ideal candidate is equal parts hospitality leader, operational tactician, and beverage expert. You will be responsible for delivering a seamless and elevated bar experience across the property while leading a team of passionate professionals, supporting business performance, and evolving our offerings in collaboration with culinary leadership.

Appellation Healdsburg is a culinary-focused Approachable Luxury hotel that embraces authenticity and locality in everything they do. We believe in the power of regional character, community, and culture to create exceptional experiences for their guests. Appellation gathers the best from each of their destinations to nurture the growth of the next generation of hoteliers and culinarians. Every element of an Appellation Hotel experience is true to place, thoughtfully composed, and crafted with the highest regard to quality. This is Appellation’s first ground up resort development in the heart of wine country, joining our existing resort in Lodi, CA and our Morgan Hill project that will open later in 2025. Truly an exciting opportunity! 

Responsibilities:

Bar Operations Oversight (Multi-Outlet)

• Lead and manage the daily operations of all bar outlets, ensuring excellence in service, preparation, cleanliness, and product presentation.
• Implement and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all bar-related functions including setup, service flow, bar prep, closing, and cleanliness.
• Maintain consistent execution of cocktail builds, pour standards, bar mise en place, and guest engagement practices across all venues.
• Coordinate bar operations for in-room dining, private events, and offsite activations when needed.

Beverage Program Development

• Partner with the Director of Bars and Restaurants and culinary team to develop seasonal cocktail menus, bar-forward promotions, spirits lists, and wine-by-the-glass offerings.

Financial Performance & Cost Control

• Monitor and optimize beverage cost of goods (COGS), par levels, inventory cycles, and product waste across all outlets.
• Manage vendor relationships, ordering systems, and product selection to ensure availability, quality, and negotiated pricing.
• Track and report on beverage performance, menu mix, average check metrics, and bar-specific KPIs.

Team Development & Leadership

• Hire, train, and lead a team of bartenders, barbacks, and lead bar staff—instilling a culture of hospitality, accountability, and continuous learning.
• Conduct regular training on cocktail execution, spirits knowledge, wine service, and responsible alcohol practices.
• Coach team members on guest interaction, speed of service, and sales techniques, ensuring consistency and excellence across all shifts.
• Maintain a visible leadership presence during peak periods, supporting team members on the floor and stepping into service when needed.

Guest Experience & Brand Alignment

• Create a consistent and engaging guest experience across all bar outlets, with a focus on warmth, story-driven beverage presentation, and intuitive service.
• Address guest concerns with discretion and professionalism; lead by example in guest interaction and service recovery.
• Ensure that the beverage program and service standards reflect the Appellation brand’s identity, philosophy, and commitment to meaningful hospitality.

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure all bar operations are in compliance with Sonoma County alcohol laws, health department codes, and brand standards.
• Manage staff certifications in alcohol service (e.g., TIPS, SERV Safe) and ensure safe and responsible practices at all times.
• Enforce safety and sanitation practices behind the bar and throughout beverage storage/prep areas.

Qualifications

• 4–6 years of bar or beverage management experience in a luxury hotel, high-volume restaurant, or multi-outlet setting
• Proven ability to lead bar teams, manage multi-outlet beverage operations, and deliver high-end guest experiences
• Advanced knowledge of mixology, spirits, wine, beer, and contemporary bar techniques (clarification, infusions, batching, etc.)
• Strong understanding of beverage cost management, labor planning, and vendor relations
• Experience using POS systems (e.g. Toast or Micros), bar inventory systems, and ordering platforms
• SERV Safe and/or TIPS certification required; advanced beverage certifications (WSET, CMS, BarSmarts) a plus
• Excellent communication, leadership, and floor management skills
• Passionate about the intersection of culinary and beverage culture
• Deep appreciation for Sonoma County ingredients, wine, and hospitality traditions
• Calm under pressure, solution-oriented, and hands-on during service
• Naturally collaborative with culinary leadership and service teams
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred

Compensation

Salary: $85,000 - $95,000 + Bonus

Comprehensive Medical Benefits Plan

401K and more

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