Bar manager: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path
Learn about the key skills, qualifications, and career path for a Bar manager
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Practice Now »What is a Bar manager?
A bar manager oversees the operations of a pub, club or other establishments that sell and serve alcohol. They are responsible for managing the bar's staff, observing their performance, ensuring quality service to customers, and often taking charge of complex administrative duties including financial management and regulatory compliance.
Skills
- Leadership and management skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Strong customer service skills
- Knowledge of alcoholic beverages and mixology
- Financial management and budgeting skills
- Ability to handle and resolve conflicts
- Organizational and multitasking abilities
- Staff training and development skills
- Marketing and promotional skills
- Health and safety knowledge and compliance
- Leadership and management skills
- Excellent communication and customer service skills
- Strong knowledge of alcoholic beverages and mixology
- Ability to handle cash and manage finances
- Organizational and multitasking abilities
- Problem-solving and decision-making skills
- Ability to train and supervise staff
- Knowledge of health and safety regulations in the hospitality industry
- Marketing and promotional skills
- Ability to work under pressure and handle difficult situations
Qualifications & Education
- No formal academic entry requirements
- On-the-job training
- NVQs/SVQs available at Levels 1 and 2 in relevant areas
Career Path
Frequently Asked Questions
To become a bar manager in the UK, you do not necessarily need formal qualifications. However, having a degree or certification in hospitality, business, management, or a related field can increase your chances of getting hired. Additionally, in England and Wales, it is necessary to have an accredited licensing qualification to sell alcohol.
The Manager of a bar in the UK is responsible for various tasks including managing the business aspects of the bar, such as maintaining a liquor license, negotiating contracts with suppliers, managing inventory and ordering supplies, handling budgets, and setting goals. They are also responsible for hiring and training staff to ensure excellent service to customers.
To become a bar manager in the UK, you will likely need to have the APLH (Award for Personal Licence Holders) qualification. Additionally, previous experience in a bar staff role is usually required. The APLH training course will provide you with the necessary skills to become a bar supervisor, and it covers topics such as unauthorized licensable activities.
Identify your strengths and weakness in a realistic Bar manager mock interview, under 10 minutes
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