Director of Beverage

Convene•New York, NY

7d•$130,000 - $140,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Beverage Director at Convene Hospitality Group will be responsible for the creation, oversight, and execution of the organization's beverage program strategy. While this role will support the broader hospitality group's portfolio in the NYC region, its primary focus will be leading the beverage program buildout and operational launch of The Mallory, our newest experiential private events venue. This role oversees all aspects of bar operations, including purchasing, inventory management, menu and recipe development, vendor partnerships, compliance, and staff training, ensuring a best-in-class guest experience. The Beverage Director will work closely with venue leadership, clients, caterers, and event teams to develop innovative beverage offerings, accommodate special requests, and deliver seamless service execution. Additionally, the Beverage Director will lead and develop the CHG event bar team, establishing operational standards and scalable processes that support both The Mallory and the broader Hospitality portfolio. This is a highly hands-on position that requires active involvement in venue openings, event execution, bar setup, and service operations, while also balancing strategic planning and administrative responsibilities in a fast-paced, hospitality-driven environment.

Requirements

8+ years in bar operations, lead bartending, or beverage coordination, ideally within an event-driven or high-volume hospitality environment.
Strong knowledge of beer, wine, spirits, and cocktail techniques.
Proven experience with purchasing, vendor management, and inventory systems.
A service-first approach with the ability to problem-solve in a fast-paced, high-end event environment.
Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays as needed to support events.
Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities with attention to detail.
Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs., stand/walk for long periods, and perform repetitive tasks.

Nice To Haves

Experience with multi-unit or portfolio-wide beverage management is highly preferred.
Advanced certifications (e.g., Court of Master Sommeliers, WSET, or equivalent) are a significant plus.
Experience with cocktail development, costing, and training preferred.
Valid NYC Food Handlers permit and certification in responsible alcohol service preferred (e.g., TIPS, ServSafe Alcohol)

Responsibilities

Develop and maintain seasonal beverage menus including cocktails, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic offerings, aligned with CHG standards and trends unique to each of CHG’s distinctive brands.
Develop scalable standards of operations for service, glassware and bar equipment, and garnishment techniques to ensure 100% consistency.
Maintain up-to-date knowledge of beverage trends, products, and industry best practices.
Oversee ordering and purchasing strategy of all beverage products, bar equipment, and supplies.
Manage inventory, track usage, and implement systems to minimize waste and control costs.
Maintain vendor relationships globally and negotiate pricing to ensure profitability and quality.
Collaborate with clients and caterers to design beverage packages that meet event goals and budgets.
Secure specialty product requests and coordinate logistics for delivery, storage, and service.
Serve as the main point of contact for all custom beverage-related inquiries during planning, production, and execution.
Oversee bar setup, breakdown, and service execution for events, ensuring a premium guest experience and pristine back-of-house standards.
Hire, train, manage, and develop members of the CHG Event Bar Staff.
Build and activate training of bartenders on recipes, service standards, and responsible alcohol service.
Ensure compliance with all alcohol service laws, health codes, and venue policies.
Provide hands-on support including but not limited to the amenity spaces and services, room setups, and general operations as needed.