Beverage Director
Sea Grill Restaurant & Bar
Position Summary
Sea Grill Restaurant & Bar is seeking an experienced and passionate Beverage Director to lead and elevate our beverage program. This position is responsible for the overall management of the bar, wine program, cocktail development, beverage inventory, purchasing, staff education, and guest experience.
The ideal candidate possesses a deep knowledge of wine, spirits, and classic and contemporary cocktails while demonstrating the leadership skills necessary to develop a high-performing bar team. This individual will continually seek opportunities to improve profitability, increase beverage sales, and deliver an exceptional fine dining experience.
Primary ResponsibilitiesBeverage Program
- Oversee all aspects of the restaurant's beverage program.
- Develop and maintain an award-worthy wine program.
- Create seasonal cocktail menus that align with the Sea Grill brand.
- Continuously evaluate trends while maintaining timeless classics.
- Ensure beverage offerings complement the culinary program.
Wine Program
- Curate and maintain an extensive wine list.
- Develop wine pairings for menu items and tasting dinners.
- Manage wine inventory and cellar organization.
- Conduct regular wine tastings and staff education.
- Build relationships with distributors and wineries.
- Oversee by-the-glass offerings to maximize quality and profitability.
Cocktail Program
- Design signature cocktails and seasonal features.
- Standardize recipes to ensure consistency.
- Maintain high standards for garnish, presentation, and execution.
- Train bartenders on proper technique, classic cocktails, and spirits knowledge.
- Continually evaluate beverage quality and guest feedback.
Leadership
- Recruit, interview, train, coach, and develop bartenders and bar support staff.
- Conduct regular beverage training focused on education, salesmanship, and guest engagement.
- Lead by example while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism.
- Coach employees daily and provide immediate feedback.
- Assist with disciplinary actions in accordance with company policies.
Financial Responsibilities
- Manage beverage cost and inventory.
- Monitor pour costs and product usage.
- Develop ordering pars and maintain inventory accuracy.
- Build strong vendor relationships and negotiate pricing when appropriate.
- Reduce waste while maintaining product quality.
- Analyze sales reports and identify opportunities for growth.
- Develop strategies to increase beverage sales and guest check averages.
Guest Experience
- Maintain a visible presence on the dining room floor and at the bar.
- Assist guests with wine selections and cocktail recommendations.
- Provide elevated tableside wine service.
- Ensure every beverage served meets Sea Grill's presentation standards.
- Build relationships with regular guests and recognize VIP clientele.
Qualifications
- Minimum of 5 years of progressive beverage management experience in an upscale or fine dining restaurant.
- Extensive knowledge of wine, spirits, beer, and craft cocktails.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and manage a successful beverage program.
- Strong leadership, coaching, and communication skills.
- Experience with beverage inventory, purchasing, and cost control.
- Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment while maintaining exceptional attention to detail.
Preferred qualifications include:
- WSET, Court of Master Sommeliers, Society of Wine Educators, or equivalent beverage certifications.
- Experience conducting wine dinners, spirit tastings, and educational events.
- Familiarity with POS systems, inventory software, and beverage analytics.
What We're Looking For
The ideal Beverage Director is equal parts educator, leader, salesperson, and hospitality professional. This individual is passionate about creating unforgettable guest experiences and understands that exceptional beverage service extends far beyond pouring drinks.
We are looking for someone who takes pride in developing people, building a best-in-class beverage program, and continually raising the standard of excellence. They should be equally comfortable discussing Old World wines, creating innovative cocktails, mentoring bartenders, managing costs, and engaging with guests on the dining room floor.
At Sea Grill, hospitality comes first. We believe exceptional food deserves an equally exceptional beverage program, and our Beverage Director will play a vital role in making Sea Grill one of Charlotte's premier dining destinations.
Pay: $55,000.00 - $70,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Experience:
- Cocktail: 3 years (Required)
- Wine knowledge: 3 years (Required)
Work Location: In person
