Bar Manager
Job Vacancy at The Birnam Hotel
About The Birnam Hotel
Recently restored and reopening in 2026, The Birnam Hotel is being shaped by a small local team with a clear, thoughtful vision for what it can be. Rooted in its place and community, the hotel has been carefully brought back to life with respect for its history and a belief in delivering soulful Scottish hospitality.
At The Birnam Hotel, we believe good work comes from people who care about what they do. In a setting defined by attention to detail and purpose, we value creativity, pride in craft, and a genuine commitment to quality, whether front of house, behind the scenes, or somewhere in between.
We are a close-knit team that believes great hospitality grows from trust, support, and shared standards. If you are looking for a workplace that encourages individuality, offers room to grow, and values people as much as the experience they create, you will feel at home here.
Overview of the Role
The Bar Manager oversees all bar operations at The Birnam Hotel, leading the team to deliver polished, welcoming, and well-paced service across the Lounge Bar, events, and the Baronial Hall. With a strong understanding of Scottish licensing laws and a passion for quality drinks, this role balances creativity, compliance, and commercial performance, ensuring the bar feels lively, well-run, and integral to the guest experience.
Key Responsibilities
Oversee the day-to-day running of the bar, ensuring smooth, efficient service and a consistently high standard of presentation.
Maintain a visible presence during service, setting the tone for warm, professional hospitality.
Coordinate bar service for events, weddings, and functions across the hotel, including the Baronial Hall.
Lead, train, and support the bar team, creating a positive and well-organised working environment.
Manage rotas and staffing levels to meet service needs while controlling labour costs.
Support ongoing training in drinks knowledge, service standards, and responsible alcohol service.
Manage stock ordering, storage, and rotation, ensuring accuracy and minimal waste.
Monitor costs, margins, and sales performance, taking a practical approach to profitability.
Maintain accurate stock records and contribute to performance reporting.
Develop and maintain drinks menus, including cocktails, spirits, beers, and wines, reflecting the hotel’s character and seasonal approach.
Introduce promotions and new ideas where appropriate, enhancing guest engagement while remaining commercially sound.
Ensure full compliance with Scottish licensing legislation, including responsible alcohol service and age-verification policies.
Uphold hygiene, health, and safety standards across all bar areas.
Maintain licensing records and support inspections as required.
About You
Skills & Competencies
A confident, supportive leader who leads by example and builds strong, motivated teams.
A genuine passion for cocktails, spirits, wine, and bar service, with pride in quality and presentation.
Guest-focused, professional, and approachable in style.
Organised and detail-oriented, with a clear understanding of stock control and cost management.
Calm under pressure, able to manage busy services and events with confidence.
Qualifications & Experience
Proven experience managing a bar within a hotel, restaurant, or quality hospitality environment.
Strong knowledge of Scottish licensing laws and responsible alcohol service.
Experience with stock control systems, ordering, and cost management.
Personal Licence Holder (Scotland) preferred or willingness to obtain.
What We Offer
A supportive, positive working environment with real opportunities to develop both personally and professionally.
The chance to be part of a newly restored hotel opening, shaped by a small, committed local team.
Staff rates at The Birnam Hotel and our sister venue, The Taybank.
Complimentary staff meal provided each shift, prepared by the kitchen team.
A focus on wellbeing, with access to employee support services.
Recognition for commitment and contribution, with opportunities to grow as the hotel develops.
Participation in a team that values collaboration, respect, and enjoyment of the work itself.
HOW TO APPLY
If you are interested in one of our roles, please kindly fill out the application below, including your CV and a short cover letter.