Restaurant Beverage Director

About Us:

Paisans is a family-owned restaurant group known for our commitment to great food, excellent service, and a welcoming atmosphere. We are seeking a passionate and strategic Beverage Director to oversee all aspects of our beverage program across multiple locations. This role blends creativity, leadership, and operational excellence to ensure our guests enjoy a consistently exceptional drink experience.

Position Summary:

The Beverage Director will lead the development, implementation, and management of all beverage programs, including bar operations, wine lists, beer selections, seasonal cocktail menus, and non-alcoholic offerings. This position requires strong vendor relationships, cost management skills, training expertise, and a keen eye for trends that align with our brand. The Beverage Director will work closely with both front-of-house and marketing teams to drive sales and maintain brand consistency.

Key Responsibilities:

Beverage Program Development

• Create and maintain seasonal and specialty beverage menus, including cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic options
• Ensure all recipes are standardized, costed, and consistently executed
• Develop unique promotions and signature drinks to differentiate the brand
• Maintain awareness of industry trends and incorporate them into menus

Vendor & Inventory Management

• Negotiate contracts and pricing with beverage suppliers and distributors
• Monitor and control beverage costs, COGS, and inventory levels across all locations
• Oversee rebate programs and ensure compliance for maximum return
• Approve purchasing and maintain relationships with key suppliers

Operational Excellence

• Establish and maintain beverage service standards for all locations
• Conduct regular bar audits to ensure cleanliness, organization, and compliance with licensing laws
• Ensure all necessary licenses, permits, and signage are up to date

Leadership & Training

• Hire, train, and mentor bar managers and bartenders
• Develop and implement ongoing training programs on drink preparation, service standards, and upselling
• Lead bar team meetings to review goals, promotions, and feedback

Sales & Marketing Collaboration

• Work with marketing to promote seasonal drinks, happy hours, and special events
• Analyze sales data to measure promotion effectiveness and make adjustments as needed
• Collaborate on photography and content for marketing campaigns

Reporting & Analysis

• Provide regular reports on beverage sales, costs, and performance to the Director of Operations
• Identify opportunities for revenue growth and operational improvements

Qualifications:

• 5 years of progressive experience in beverage or bar management (multi-unit preferred)
• Strong knowledge of spirits, cocktails, beer, wine, and industry trends
• Proven track record of cost management and vendor negotiations
• Creative and innovative approach to menu development
• Excellent leadership, training, and communication skills
• Proficiency in inventory management systems and Microsoft Office / POS systems
• Ability to travel regularly between locations
• Must be at least 21 years of age and hold/obtain all necessary certifications

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $70,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Paid training
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $70,000