What are the responsibilities and job description for the Hotel Bar Manager position at La Fonda on the Plaza?
Company Description: Located in the heart of Santa Fe's historic Plaza, La Fonda on the Plaza has welcomed travelers for more than 100 years and stands on the site of the city's first reported inn. As one of the Southwest's most iconic historic hotels, La Fonda blends timeless architecture, exceptional hospitality, award-winning dining, and a deep commitment to preserving the rich culture and traditions of New Mexico. Today, the hotel continues to invest in its future while honoring its remarkable heritage, creating unforgettable experiences for guests and meaningful career opportunities for hospitality professionals.
Role Description The Hotel Bar Manager is responsible for overseeing daily bar operations at La Fonda on the Plaza's repositioned bar venue, ensuring an exceptional guest experience in alignment with the property’s high service standards. This full-time, on-site role in Santa Fe, NM includes supervising bar staff, managing schedules, and leading pre-shift briefings to maintain consistent service and product knowledge. The Hotel Bar Manager will oversee inventory and ordering for beverages and supplies, monitor bar costs, and ensure accurate cash handling and point-of-sale procedures. The role includes developing drink menus in collaboration with culinary leadership, maintaining compliance with all health, safety, and alcohol service regulations, and ensuring the bar area meets cleanliness and presentation standards. The Hotel Bar Manager will also handle guest feedback, support marketing initiatives and promotions, and coordinate with other hotel departments to support events and group functions.
Qualifications
- Strong customer service skills with a commitment to delivering a welcoming, high-quality guest experience.
- Extensive food & beverage knowledge, including cocktail creation, wine and spirits familiarity, and bar operations.
- Excellent communication skills for interacting with guests, supervising staff, and collaborating with hotel departments.
- Experience in training and coaching bar team members to uphold service standards and operational procedures.
- Sales and upselling skills to promote specialty beverages, events, and hotel offerings.
- Previous supervisory or management experience in a bar, lounge, or restaurant environment, preferably in a hotel setting.
- Understanding of local and state alcohol service laws, health codes, and safety regulations.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by hotel operations.
- Proficiency with point-of-sale systems and basic budgeting or cost control practices.
- High school diploma or equivalent required; hospitality or business-related education is a plus.