Job Description

Job Title:

Head Bartender

Organisation:

Gunpowder Restaurants

Summary

The Head Bartender leads all bar operations across Gunpowder Restaurants. The role demands an experienced, driven, and creative professional with a deep passion for mixology, a strong sense of leadership, and an eye for quality. You'll oversee beverage programmes, develop a motivated bar team, innovate with seasonal menus, and maintain operational excellence across cost control, inventory, and guest experience.

You'll be expected to bring enthusiasm, initiative, and discipline -- building a bar culture that reflects Gunpowder's ethos: thoughtful, flavour-driven, and authentic.

Key Responsibilities

Bar Operations & Beverage Programme

Curate and develop an inventive, balanced, and evolving cocktail menu aligned with Gunpowder's cuisine and identity. Stay current with global bar trends, techniques, and equipment, integrating innovative methods while maintaining the integrity of the brand. Source and maintain high-quality spirits, mixers, and garnishes with a focus on authenticity and craftsmanship. Work closely with the culinary team to design cocktails that complement food pairings and regional flavours. Implement consistent standards across beverage preparation, service, and presentation.

Team Leadership & Training

Lead, motivate, and mentor the bar team to deliver excellence with consistency and energy. Build a culture of accountability, professionalism, and creativity. Conduct regular training sessions on mixology, beverage knowledge, guest engagement, and responsible service. Ensure smooth coordination between bar, service, and kitchen teams.

Revenue & Guest Experience

Develop and execute upselling strategies and premium beverage promotions to maximise revenue without compromising quality. Monitor sales and adjust offerings and promotions based on performance and guest feedback. Ensure every guest receives attentive, engaging, and personalised service. Create memorable bar experiences that encourage repeat visits and positive word-of-mouth.

Inventory & Cost Management

Oversee end-to-end beverage inventory management using modern inventory systems. Track usage, wastage, and variance; conduct regular stock audits. Negotiate pricing and manage supplier relationships to ensure cost-effective sourcing. Maintain strict controls to prevent over-pouring and ensure profitability.

Financials & Reporting

Support management in setting and achieving bar performance targets. Analyse sales, costs, and consumption data to identify opportunities for efficiency and improvement. Present concise performance reports with actionable insights.

Compliance & Safety

Ensure full compliance with all health, safety, and excise regulations. Enforce responsible alcohol service standards at all times.

Qualifications & Attributes

Minimum 4-5 years of progressive bar management experience in a premium restaurant or cocktail bar. Strong knowledge of mixology, spirits, wines, and emerging trends. Proven team leadership and people management skills. Experience using digital inventory and POS systems. Creative, organised, and energetic approach to problem-solving and service. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Certification in responsible beverage service preferred.

Reports to:

Proprietor / Restaurant Manager

Leads:

Senior Bartender, Bartender, Assistant Bartender, Bar Waiter

Works closely with:

Executive Chef, HR, Accounts, and Operations Teams

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: ₹24,000.00 - ₹30,000.00 per month

Benefits:

Food provided Paid time off Provident Fund
Ability to commute/relocate:

Assagao, Goa: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)
Education:

Diploma (Preferred)
Experience:

Bartending: 3 years (Preferred)
Language:

English (Required)
Work Location: In person