Wine Bar Manager

19 Days Old

WINE BAR MANAGER Full-time | Covent Garden Lady of the Grapes is looking for a Wine Bar Manager to join its passionate wine lovers team, as our current manager moves to our new venue in mid-April. Located in the heart of Covent Garden, Lady of the Grapes is an award-winning wine bar and restaurant (with 2 AA rosettes) supporting and showcasing female winemakers and better viticulture practices. We serve high-quality seasonal ingredients, offering classical and modern French cuisine alongside an exceptional wine list of 550+ natural, biodynamic and organic wines crafted by female producers. We also offer curated tasting flights and regularly host winemaker events. All our staff are invited to meet producers, attend tastings, and grow their wine knowledge, we are committed to helping our team thrive in their passion. We are looking for someone who wants to grow with us long-term and play a key role in the continued development of the business. We welcome applications from women as we are committed to equal opportunities and diversity. The Role The Manager will be an integral part of our front-of-house leadership team, reporting directly to the Owner, Carole. This is a hands-on leadership role combining operational excellence, team development, strong wine knowledge and financial responsibility. You will oversee the daily running of the restaurant, lead the team, maintain service standards, and ensure profitability; all while delivering exceptional guest experiences. Responsibilities Lead, train and motivate the front-of-house team to maintain a positive and professional culture Organise and manage staff rotas, approve holidays and validate working hours Conduct onboarding, ongoing training and monthly wine training sessions Work closely with the kitchen to ensure smooth and efficient service Oversee daily floor operations, including opening and closing duties Ensure exceptional guest experience and handle complaints professionally Maintain the highest service standards at all times Ensure menus and wine lists are up to date Create and manage the weekly wine by the glass list and wine flights Demonstrate excellent knowledge of the wine list and support guests with recommendations Monitor stock levels, organise weekly stock takes and place wine orders Ensure proper cellar organisation, storage and stock rotation Negotiate with suppliers when needed and monitor margins Support marketing initiatives, private events and revenue growth Conduct annual performance reviews with the owner and manage bonuses Report directly to the Owner regarding team performance and operations Ensure compliance with health & safety standards Be reliable and a team player Required Experience and Skills Previous experience as a Manager or senior leadership role in hospitality Minimum WSET Level 3 Strong knowledge and passion for organic, biodynamic and natural wines Proven ability to lead, motivate and develop a team Excellent communication and customer service skills Confident handling busy services and high-pressure situations Strong organisational and time-management skills Commercial awareness and understanding of stock control and margins Professional, reliable and punctual Positive attitude and strong team spirit Passion for wine, food and hospitality excellence MUST HAVE THE RIGHT TO WORK IN UK Whats on offer? Competitive salary (45-hour contract) Bonuses 28 days holiday Retirement pension Flexible rota to support work-life balance Closed every Monday + Christmas period & early January 20% staff discount when dining Cost price wines to take home Free fresh meals on duty Referral bonus scheme (up to £250) Opportunity to grow within a developing wine-focused business We are building something meaningful and long-term. If you are passionate about wine, hospitality excellence and want to grow with a company that champions female winemakers, we would love to hear from you. Please send your CV and a cover letter explaining why you would be the right fit. We are excited to meet you and welcome you into the Lady of the Grapes' family.
TPBN1_UKCT
Location:
Central London
Job Type:
PartTime