Bar & Events Manager | Hostel Hospitality

American Youth Hostels•New York, NY

4d•$66,500 - $69,000•Onsite

About The Position

We’re seeking a hands-on leader to oversee both our bar program and event spaces, creating a vibrant, welcoming experience for travelers and locals alike. This role is ideal for someone with bar leadership experience who can confidently manage day-to-day operations while also developing and executing engaging events. You’ll lead bar and event staff, manage inventory and vendor relationships, and ensure smooth, high-quality service across all shifts. In addition, you’ll oversee booking and coordination for five on-site event spaces—handling client communication, scheduling, and execution for events ranging from small gatherings to groups of up to 150 guests. You’ll also drive revenue through creative programming, activities, and events that bring energy to the space and enhance the overall guest experience. If you enjoy balancing operations with creativity and thrive in a fast-paced, social environment, this is a great opportunity to help shape the energy and experience of our NYC hostel.

Requirements

2+ years of bar or hospitality management experience, including hands-on bartending.
Strong leadership skills with experience training and motivating small teams.
Ability to communicate effectively with teams and cross departmental.
Operational knowledge of inventory management, cost control, scheduling, vendor relations, and POS/cash-handling procedures.
Creative and strategic thinker with experience in concept development, menu planning, and event programming.
Strong customer service mindset and ability to create a welcoming, engaging atmosphere.
Familiarity with health, safety, sanitation, and alcohol service regulations.
Ability to obtain or maintain required certifications (food handler, responsible alcohol service).
Adaptable and able to multitask and respond in a fast-paced environment.
Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills for handling operational issues and guest concerns.

Responsibilities

Oversee booking and coordination for five rentable event spaces of varying sizes, from intimate gatherings to events of up to 150 guests, ensuring effective scheduling, client communication, and smooth on-site execution
Develop and execute a calendar of events and activities for guests and the local community.
Manage and update OTA (online travel agency) listings for all five event spaces, ensuring content, photos, and availability are current and compelling.
Support marketing efforts to promote the bar and event spaces to both travelers and locals.
Step in as a hands-on leader for bar shifts when needed, supporting the team to ensure excellent service, atmosphere, and flow.
Oversee bar and event staff, including hiring, training, scheduling, and day-to-day supervision.
Manage all bar inventory, including regular counts, ordering, vendor relationships, and cost control.
Monitor expenses and implement cost-control measures to ensure bar and event operations meet budgetary targets.
Maintain a clean, safe, and organized environment in compliance with all health and safety regulations.
Handle cash and credit transactions and oversee end-of-shift reconciliation.
Source additional or outsourced staff as needed to support events and peak business periods.
Drive revenue across the bar, all five event spaces, and the marketplace through programming, activities, and strategic initiatives.
Build and maintain relationships with local businesses, organizations, and the broader community to generate event bookings, partnerships, and repeat business.
Identify and develop partnerships with external vendors and companies to expand offerings and enhance guest experiences.
Collaborate with the General Manager and Project Manager to plan budgets, track financial performance, ensuring alignment with revenue goals and growth strategies.
Oversee inventory and maintenance of all furnishings, equipment, and AV assets related to the bar and event spaces.
Support broader F&B initiatives, including the marketplace, pop-ups, and special programming.
Act as a cross-functional leader, collaborating closely with the General Manager, Project Manager, Sales, Housekeeping, and Engagement teams to deliver cohesive guest experience