Area Beverage Manager - The Hotel at Auburn University

Position Purpose:

We are seeking a talented and visionary Area Beverage Manager to lead our beverage program across The Hotel at Auburn University, The Laurel Hotel & Spa, The Hey Day Market bar and 1856-Culinary Residence. As the Area Beverage Manager, you will have the unique opportunity to shape and elevate the beverage offerings and setting the standard for excellence in mixology, service, and guest experience. This role requires a passionate and innovative leader who is dedicated to creating memorable experiences through exceptional cocktails, curated beverage selections, and impeccable service.

Key Responsibilities:

• Beverage Program Development: Design and implement comprehensive beverage programs that align with the hotel or restaurants brand standards and cater to the preferences of our diverse clientele.
• Menu Curation: Collaborate with all resources available to you to develop and update beverage menus, ensuring a balanced selection of cocktails, wines, spirits, and non-alcoholic options.
• Vendor Management: Build and maintain relationships with beverage suppliers and negotiate favorable pricing and terms to optimize cost efficiency without compromising quality.
• Staff Training and Development: Working closely with Ithaka's Corporate Training and Development Manager to train, mentor, and motivate beverage staff to deliver exceptional service and maintain high standards of product knowledge and presentation.
• Quality Control: Implement rigorous quality control measures to ensure consistency in beverage preparation, presentation, and service delivery.
• Inventory Management: Oversee inventory levels, ordering, and stock rotation to minimize waste and maximize profitability through properties Inventory Management System.
• Financial Oversight: Monitor beverage revenue, expenses, and profitability, preparing reports and budgets as required.
• Guest Engagement: Actively engage with guests to gather feedback, anticipate their needs, and enhance their overall experience through personalized beverage offerings and service.
• Education: This position will require engagement with students in the Horst Schulze School of Hospitality Management form time to time.

Requirements:

• Experience: Proven track record of success in a similar role within the hospitality industry
• Leadership Skills: Strong leadership abilities with the ability to inspire and motivate a team of beverage professionals.
• Industry Knowledge: In-depth understanding of current beverage trends, techniques, and best practices.
• Communication Skills: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with guests, staff, and management.
• Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to interpret financial and operational data and make informed decisions.
• Flexibility: Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed. Ability to travel between properties as required and adapt to changing operational needs.

Qualifications:

• Five years in the Hospitality Industry
• Experience in a luxury setting with a diverse knowledge of Food & Beverage
• Certifications through The Court of Master Sommeliers, Society of Wine Educators, WSET or Somm Foundation preferred.

We are a group of individuals who believe that the journey is just as important as the destination. That life is a string of experiences made to be enjoyed. That a company can have a soul, and that soul is more than the sum of its parts.

We are Ithaka. Our road is full of adventure and discovery.

Ithaka Hospitality Partners was founded as a premier partner in the hospitality management industry, focused on driving loyalty and creating enhanced experiences for our guests, team members, and owners.

We are committed to long-term partnerships between all stakeholders, creating a true alliance partnership unique in our industry. Through strong, enduring relationships with our partners, streamlined operations and the highest level of engagement, we deliver strategic and tactical methods to achieve overall profitability, guest satisfaction and employee loyalty.

We believe in serving our guests, team members, investors, owners, and partners with honesty, integrity and uncompromising quality. Ithaka boasts a high level of involvement with all aspects of hospitality management, and provides a clear vision with a commitment to bringing that vision to life. Our business acumen coupled with our deep understanding of the hospitality industry at a global level sets us apart.

Please visit ithakahp.com to learn more about who we are.