Bar Manager

Front of House Manager (Bar-Focused / Craft Cocktail Program Lead)Sumter, SCCompetitive Salary + Bonus + Relocation AssistanceSchedule: Tuesday–Saturday | Dinner Service Only (1 PM start | Last reservation at 9 PM)About the ConceptBlue Harlan is partnering with a fast-growing, design-forward hospitality group to identify a Front of House Manager with a strong bar and craft cocktail background. This restaurant is not a high-volume chain environment — it is a chef- and bar-driven concept with a serious focus on elevated cocktails, thoughtful spirits, and a refined guest experience.This is an ideal role for someone who has come up through the bar, understands the nuance of a great cocktail program, and is ready to take ownership of both the bar and overall front-of-house experience.Position OverviewThis role blends Front of House leadership with Bar Manager-level responsibility. You will be the driving force behind both service standards and the beverage experience, leading from the floor while actively shaping and maintaining a high-level cocktail program.You won’t be managing from the office — you’ll be on the floor, behind the bar when needed, and fully engaged in the guest experience.Key ResponsibilitiesBar & Beverage LeadershipOversee and actively contribute to the craft cocktail program, including seasonal menu development and executionMaintain deep knowledge of spirits, classic and modern cocktails, and techniqueTrain and mentor bartenders to execute at a high level of consistency and creativityEnsure proper prep, batching, spec adherence, and bar organizationManage bar inventory, ordering, cost controls, and vendor relationshipsFront of House LeadershipLead and develop all FOH team members, with a strong emphasis on bartenders and service staffSet and maintain elevated hospitality standards across the dining room and barBe highly visible on the floor, driving energy, flow, and guest engagementOversee nightly service, staffing decisions, and floor managementCulture & OperationsBuild a culture of accountability, professionalism, and pride in craftPartner with BOH leadership to ensure a seamless, cohesive experienceAssist with hiring, training programs, and performance managementContinuously refine service and operational systemsWhat Makes This Opportunity UniqueSerious focus on craft cocktails and beverage quality — not an afterthought to foodOpportunity to have a voice in the bar program, not just execute itDinner-only service (no late-night bar chaos or brunch burnout)Strong ownership presence and a values-driven cultureBeautiful, design-forward space with a growing reputationClear path for growth as the concept expandsQualifications3+ years in a leadership role with significant bar or beverage program experienceBackground in craft cocktail environments, upscale restaurants, or cocktail-focused conceptsStrong knowledge of spirits, cocktail history, and modern techniquesProven ability to train and develop high-level bartendersHands-on leadership style — comfortable jumping behind the bar when neededHigh standards for detail, cleanliness, and guest experienceWho This Is Not ForManagers without meaningful bar experienceCandidates from primarily corporate / chain-driven service modelsIndividuals who prefer administrative roles over floor presenceCompensation & BenefitsCompetitive base salaryPerformance-based bonusRelocation assistanceBenefits package