What is the difference between front-of-house and back-of-house responsibilities for a Bar Manager?

Date modified: 22nd September 2025 | This FAQ page has been written by Pilla Founder, Liam Jones, click to email Liam directly, he reads every email. Or book a demo to see how hospitality businesses use Pilla to create and record job descriptions.

Bar Manager Job Description Template

This job description template provides a full working exmaple using our six step approach. Open the template in the Pilla app and customise each section to make it specific to your role and business.

We operate a sophisticated cocktail bar and restaurant serving 300+ covers weekly with emphasis on craft beverages, exceptional hospitality, and profitable operations. Our bar manager leads a dynamic team of bartenders and bar staff, balancing creative cocktail programs with commercial success while maintaining the highest standards of customer service. The role demands strategic thinking, hands-on leadership, and comprehensive understanding of beverage operations from inventory management to staff development. Our establishment culture values innovation, professionalism, and guest satisfaction, requiring a manager who can inspire teams, control costs, and drive revenue growth while preserving the quality and atmosphere that define our brand identity.
• Lead and motivate bar team including recruitment, training, scheduling, and performance management of 8-12 staff members • Develop and implement comprehensive training programs covering cocktail preparation, wine service, customer interaction, and sales techniques • Manage all bar operations including opening/closing procedures, inventory control, cash handling, and equipment maintenance • Create and maintain cocktail menus, wine lists, and beverage programs that drive profitability while exceeding guest expectations • Oversee daily financial performance including revenue tracking, cost control, waste management, and profit margin optimization • Ensure compliance with licensing regulations, health and safety requirements, and responsible service of alcohol protocols • Coordinate with kitchen and management teams on service flow, special events, and promotional activities • Handle customer relations including complaint resolution, VIP guest management, and building customer loyalty programs • Conduct regular staff meetings, one-to-one reviews, and ongoing coaching to maintain service standards and team development • Manage supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, and oversee purchasing decisions to optimize quality and cost effectiveness • Implement and monitor cash handling procedures, till reconciliation, and financial reporting systems • Plan and execute special events, tastings, and promotional activities that enhance revenue and guest engagement
Essential Skills: Proven leadership experience managing hospitality teams with demonstrated ability to recruit, train, and retain quality staff; comprehensive beverage knowledge including spirits, wine, beer, and cocktail preparation techniques; strong financial acumen with experience in P&L management, cost control, and revenue optimization; excellent customer service and communication skills for guest relations and team coordination; thorough understanding of licensing laws, health and safety regulations, and responsible service requirements; proficiency with POS systems, inventory management software, and financial reporting tools. Preferred Qualifications: 3+ years bar management or assistant management experience in similar volume establishments; formal hospitality or business management qualifications; advanced wine or spirits certifications (WSET, Court of Master Sommeliers); experience with craft cocktail programs and menu development; knowledge of staff scheduling software and payroll management; proven track record of achieving financial targets and improving operational efficiency; experience with special events coordination and promotional activity management.
We're looking for an experienced hospitality professional with at least 3 years management experience in busy bar or restaurant environments, showing clear career progression and successful team leadership. You should have comprehensive understanding of beverage operations, financial management, and staff development gained through hands-on experience in similar places. While formal management qualifications are great to have, we care more about practical experience, proven results, and strong leadership ability. This role offers excellent career development opportunities including potential advancement to general manager positions, involvement in opening new venues, and participation in our expanding restaurant group's strategic planning.
Our ideal bar manager combines strong commercial awareness with genuine passion for hospitality excellence, leading by example while inspiring teams to achieve exceptional results. You should possess natural coaching abilities, demonstrating patience and skill in developing staff capabilities while maintaining high performance standards. We value leaders who remain calm under pressure, make sound decisions quickly, and communicate effectively with diverse teams and clientele. The successful candidate will be innovative in approach, collaborative in style, and committed to continuous improvement in all aspects of bar operations. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to balance multiple priorities are essential for managing the complex demands of modern bar operations.
Competitive management salary of £32,000-£38,000 annually plus performance-based bonus structure tied to revenue targets and operational KPIs (potential additional £3,000-£5,000 annually). Comprehensive management benefits package includes: 28 days paid annual leave plus bank holidays and professional development time; health and dental insurance including family coverage options; ongoing management training and industry certification support; company car allowance or travel expense reimbursement; staff development budget for team training and external course funding; profit-sharing scheme based on establishment performance; management-level pension contributions; flexible working arrangements where operationally feasible; career advancement opportunities within our expanding hospitality group including potential equity participation in new ventures.

Front-of-house (FOH) responsibilities focus on direct customer interaction and ensuring an exceptional guest experience. This includes managing the service team, engaging with customers, and maintaining service quality. Back-of-house (BOH) responsibilities, however, deal with behind-the-scenes tasks such as inventory management, scheduling, and compliance with safety regulations. Both areas require the Bar Manager to ensure smooth operation and quality service.

Common misunderstanding: A Bar Manager only needs to focus on customer service.

While customer service is crucial, a Bar Manager also needs to handle back-of-house tasks effectively. Overlooking aspects like inventory or staff scheduling can disrupt the bar's operation, affecting the overall customer experience.

Common misunderstanding: Back-of-house tasks are less important than front-of-house duties.

Both areas are equally important for the success of the bar. Neglecting back-of-house responsibilities can lead to operational failures, such as running out of stock or non-compliance with health regulations, which indirectly impacts customer satisfaction.

Which operational tasks should I include in a Bar Manager’s job description?

Include tasks that cover both front-of-house and back-of-house operations. This should encompass managing staff, ensuring customer satisfaction, handling inventory, overseeing compliance with health and safety standards, and analyzing sales data to optimize operations. Clearly defining these tasks helps candidates understand the scope of the role and the skills required to manage these operations effectively.

Common misunderstanding: Operational tasks are only about managing physical resources.

Operational management also involves strategic tasks such as analyzing sales trends and customer feedback to improve service and offerings. It's not just about physical stock or scheduling but also about making informed decisions that drive business success.

Common misunderstanding: The Bar Manager should personally perform all tasks.

While the Bar Manager oversees these tasks, delegation is key. They should lead the team and ensure that tasks are completed effectively through proper management and training of staff.

How can I outline the managerial responsibilities without overwhelming the candidate?

Break down the responsibilities into clear, manageable categories such as leadership, customer service, and administrative duties. Use bullet points to list specific tasks under each category. This structured approach helps candidates easily understand what is expected without feeling overwhelmed by a block of text.

Common misunderstanding: More responsibilities in the job description will deter candidates.

When responsibilities are clearly and concisely outlined, it helps attract candidates who are confident in handling those tasks. It's about setting clear expectations, not just listing duties.

Common misunderstanding: A detailed job description is unnecessary if the role is commonly understood.

Every bar operates differently, and managerial roles can vary significantly. A detailed job description helps ensure that candidates are aware of the specific expectations and requirements of your venue, reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings later on.