Bar Manager

Toast & Oak Ltd – Queenstown, South Island Toast & Oak | Queenstown, New Zealand Full-time, salaried position Toast & Oak is an award-winning wine bar and restaurant in the heart of Queenstown, known for its refined seasonal food, carefully curated beverage programme and warm, elevated approach to hospitality. We are seeking an experienced Bar Manager to take responsibility for our bar operations and lead the continued development of our beverage offering. This is a senior, hands‑on position combining operational management, team leadership, guest service and regular involvement behind the bar. The successful applicant must have strong knowledge of cocktails, spirits, wine and beverage service, along with proven experience managing a bar within a busy, quality‑focused hospitality environment. Bar Manager Manage the daily operation of the bar and ensure services run smoothly and efficiently Lead the bar team during preparation and service Develop and maintain cocktail, spirits and non‑alcoholic beverage menus Work with the Sommelier and restaurant leadership team to ensure the beverage programme complements the food and wine offering Prepare and serve cocktails and other beverages to established recipes and presentation standards Maintain consistently high standards of beverage quality, presentation and guest service Recruit, train, supervise and mentor bartenders and other front‑of‑house team members Prepare staff rosters and ensure the bar is appropriately staffed for each service Monitor team performance and provide regular coaching and feedback Manage beverage ordering, inventory, stock rotation and supplier relationships Complete regular stocktakes and investigate stock discrepancies Monitor beverage costs, margins, pricing, wastage and overall bar profitability Maintain accurate records relating to stock, ordering and bar operations Ensure the bar is clean, organised, fully stocked and prepared before each service Maintain all bar equipment and arrange servicing or repairs when required Respond professionally to guest feedback, concerns and special requests Support the wider front‑of‑house team and restaurant management during service Ensure compliance with the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act, host responsibility requirements, food safety procedures and workplace health and safety standards Assist with private events, beverage pairings, special menus and promotional activities About you At least 3 years’ relevant experience in professional bar operations, including experience in a supervisory or management position Proven ability to manage a busy, quality‑focused bar Strong knowledge of classic and contemporary cocktails, spirits, wine and beverage service Experience developing cocktails and maintaining beverage menus Experience with ordering, stocktake, cost control, pricing and waste management Confident leading, training and motivating a team Strong organisational, communication and problem‑solving skills Calm, professional and decisive during busy services A genuine passion for hospitality and creating memorable guest experiences Able to work evenings, weekends and public holidays as required A current New Zealand Manager’s Certificate is preferred, or you must be willing and eligible to obtain one Relevant hospitality or management qualifications are advantageous but not essential The Perks Toast & Oak is a small, owner‑operated venue where the owners work alongside the team. We are committed to maintaining a professional, respectful and supportive workplace where people are encouraged to contribute ideas and develop their skills. Competitive salary based on experience Full-time, stable employment Performance‑based incentives Opportunities for professional development and career progression Creative input into our cocktail and wider beverage programme Hands‑on support from an experienced ownership and management team Staff meals & staff discounts across multiple venues A professional and team‑focused working environment The opportunity to work with premium wines, spirits and seasonal ingredients #J-18808-Ljbffr