Head Bartender – Strawfire

The Head Bartender at Strawfire leads daily bar operations at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi. The role combines beverage leadership, team training, guest engagement, mixology and cocktail preparation, inventory and presentation standards, cash handling, menu development, responsible-service compliance and commercial performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the beverage section efficiently according to the outlet concept and service standards.
• Provide senior leadership coverage during opening and closing operations.
• Create a welcoming atmosphere and encourage professional guest interaction.
• Train and develop bartenders in mixology, cocktail preparation, freestyle bartending and beverage knowledge.
• Recommend cocktails, wines and non-alcoholic beverages based on guest preferences.
• Use approved suggestive-selling techniques to support revenue and promote appropriate products.
• Maintain detailed knowledge of beverage inventory, wine selections, recipes and current trends.
• Oversee bar setup, cleanliness, organization and presentation throughout service.
• Apply accurate cash-handling, check-writing, credit-card and ledger procedures.
• Review beverage menus and recommend improvements, concepts and promotions.
• Ensure compliance with applicable licensing, responsible-service and beverage regulations.
• Support bar business and marketing plans and contribute to departmental budgeting.
• Handle guest concerns professionally and ensure appropriate follow-up.

Candidate Profile

• Diploma or professional certification in Bartending, Mixology, Hospitality Management, Food & Beverage or related field.
• Minimum 3–5 years of bartending experience in a luxury hotel, resort, fine-dining restaurant or high-end bar.
• Previous Senior Bartender, Head Bartender or supervisory experience is highly preferred.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to engage confidently with international guests.

Additional Role Information

• Department: Food & Beverage - Strawfire
• Reports to: Restaurant General Manager

Employment Details

• Company: Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group
• Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
• Employment Type: Full Time
• Application: Apply through the original vacancy link provided in this listing.

This full-time opportunity is suited to candidates who can combine technical or operational expertise with dependable communication, attention to detail and a strong customer or business focus. The successful candidate will be expected to work collaboratively, follow company procedures, maintain professional standards and contribute to continuous improvement. Applicants should review the source vacancy carefully and ensure that their CV clearly reflects the experience, qualifications and skills requested for the position.