Bar Manager — Beverage Operations
Iron Forge Brewing CompanyBar Manager Iron Forge Brewing Company | Based in Knoxville, TN Reports to: Assistant General Manager Iron Forge Brewing Company is seeking an experienced, hands-on Bar Manager to lead our bar operations and beverage program across our Knoxville and Sevierville locations. This position is based in Knoxville and requires regular travel to Sevierville, where a Bar Lead will support daily execution. We need a proven bar leader who can create an outstanding cocktail program, develop knowledgeable teams, control costs, and deliver a consistently excellent guest experience. This is a working management position requiring active involvement behind the bar, on the floor, and in staff development. Key Responsibilities Cocktail Program & Beverage Menus Create and manage a craft cocktail program, including signature cocktails, specialty drinks, and seasonal offerings. Develop beverage menus that complement our food, showcase Iron Forge beers, and fit each location’s guests. Establish standardized recipes, pours, preparation methods, garnishes, and presentation standards. Cost every drink and recommend pricing that supports profitability. Coordinate menu launches with management and ensure staff are trained before new drinks are introduced. Team Leadership & Training Lead, coach, and hold bar staff accountable across both locations. Work closely with the Sevierville Bar Lead to maintain consistent service, cleanliness, organization, and beverage quality. Provide ongoing craft beer training, including beer styles, flavor profiles, service techniques, and food pairings. Train staff in cocktail preparation, product knowledge, responsible alcohol service, hospitality, and effective selling. Create and manage bar staff schedules based on anticipated sales, events, staffing needs, and labor targets. Participate in interviewing, hiring, performance reviews, disciplinary action, and termination decisions in coordination with the AGM and GM. Communicate staffing needs, operational issues, and performance concerns promptly to the AGM. Ordering, Inventory & Cost Control Manage beverage ordering, inventory counts, stock levels, and product rotation at both locations. Build and maintain strong professional relationships with liquor distributor representatives and other beverage suppliers. Track beverage costs, waste, overpouring, discounts, and inventory discrepancies; take corrective action when needed. Keep recipes, pricing, inventory records, and Toast beverage menus accurate and current. Coordinate purchasing and seasonal selections to support menu quality, availability, and cost targets. Guest Experience & Bar Standards Set the standard for welcoming, attentive, knowledgeable service. Resolve guest concerns professionally and support the team during busy service periods. Maintain clean, organized, fully stocked bars, storage areas, coolers, and service stations. Establish and enforce opening, closing, cleaning, and preventive maintenance checklists. Maintain compliance with applicable health department requirements, sanitation standards, and alcohol service rules. Coordinate with kitchen and management teams on service, promotions, private events, and beverage pairings. Qualifications & Requirements Proven experience as a Bar Manager, Beverage Manager, or comparable hospitality leader. Demonstrated experience creating and running a craft cocktail program, including menu development, standardized recipes, and drink costing. Strong knowledge of spirits, cocktails, craft beer, and beverage service. Experience with ordering, inventory management, scheduling, labor control, and staff training. Established ability to build productive relationships with liquor distributor representatives. Working knowledge of Toast POS preferred; MarginEdge experience preferred. Strong communication, organization, follow-through, and team accountability. Experience maintaining health department and sanitation standards. Full availability, including nights, weekend…