Bar Manager

Tupelo Grille•Whitefish, MT

14h•Onsite

About The Position

A leader behind the bar and at the table. You own the beverage program, develop the people in it, and help shape what Tupelo Grill looks and tastes like to our guests. The Bar Manager is a senior role at Tupelo Grill, responsible for the full scope of bar operations — from daily execution to long-term program development. You will manage and mentor bar staff, own the cocktail and beverage program, oversee ordering and inventory, and serve as a guest-facing leader in both the bar and lounge. This is not a role for someone who wants to hide behind a well. It is a role for someone who takes genuine pride in craft, in people, and in building something worth being proud of. The Bar Manager reports directly to the GM and is a key voice in the ongoing development of the Tupelo experience.

Requirements

Minimum 3 years of bartending experience, with at least 1 year in a lead or supervisory capacity
Deep knowledge of spirits, cocktail technique, wine, and beer — able to speak fluently about the beverage program with both staff and guests
Experience managing or contributing to a cocktail menu or beverage program
Demonstrated ability to lead people — give feedback, hold standards, and develop others
Comfort with basic inventory management and cost tracking
Must hold or be able to obtain Montana alcohol service certification
Must be 18 or older
Reliable availability including evenings, weekends, and holidays

Nice To Haves

You see the beverage program as a craft project, not a cost center
You lead by example — your standards are visible in how you work, not just in what you say
You are comfortable owning outcomes — if the bar is not running well, you already know why and you are already fixing it
You communicate up and down clearly — with the GM, with your team, and with guests
You are curious. You are always tasting, learning, and looking for what could be better

Responsibilities

Oversee all bar operations during service, maintaining quality, pace, and guest experience standards
Lead, schedule, and mentor bar staff — bartenders and bar backs — with clear expectations and consistent feedback
Own the cocktail and beverage program: develop seasonal menus, introduce new offerings, and maintain a program that reflects Tupelo's identity and price point
Manage bar inventory, ordering, and vendor relationships — track par levels, submit orders, and ensure accurate receiving
Monitor and report on beverage cost of goods, identify variances, and implement controls as needed
Collaborate with the GM on beverage pricing strategy, menu updates, and special event programming
Develop and maintain bar SOPs, opening and closing procedures, and training materials for bar staff
Serve guests directly behind the bar and take tables situationally when floor coverage requires it
Maintain compliance with Montana liquor laws and responsible alcohol service standards across the bar team
Conduct regular inventory counts and provide accurate reporting to the GM
Assist with hiring and onboarding of bar staff
Participate in pre-shift meetings and contribute to overall FOH communication