Head Bartender

JOIN OUR FAMILY

At RBH we believe our people are our biggest assets and understand the value in putting them first. Our approach to diversity in the workplace, health & wellbeing, sustainability and individuality sets us apart from our competitors and is one of the reasons we are rated Top 30 Best Places to Work in Hospitality!  We are passionate about the industry and always on the lookout for new talent to join us on our journey...

OUR HOTEL

The Met Hotel Leeds is undergoing a dramatic transformation, a reinvention, not just a refurbishment. We're creating a hotel like no other in the heart of Leeds, where food and drink aren’t just part of the experience, they are the experience. And right at the heart of this, we need a Head Bartender who oozes flair, confidence, and a deep knowledge of the latest trends in food and beverage to help us deliver an unforgettable guest experience.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A HEAD BARTENDER AT THE MET HOTEL, LEEDS

As Head Bartender, you'll be at the helm of our dynamic bar, crafting cocktails that embody the energy and style of our hotel. You’ll use your deep knowledge of current food and beverage trends to deliver an experience that’s bold, fresh, and memorable, from classic cocktails to creative twists. Whether it’s a signature cocktail or a handpicked wine pairing, your flair for mixing flavours will shine through in every pour.

You’ll lead the bar team with vibrancy and passion, ensuring a seamless service where every drink is an experience, and every guest feels like they’re the centre of attention.

Reporting directly into the Restaurant and Bar Manager, you’ll collaborate closely to create an experience that matches the hotel's bold personality, and you’ll take ownership of your bar team’s development and success.

What you’ll do:

• Lead and inspire the bar team, bringing energy, wit, and impeccable skill to every shift. You’ll be the go-to expert on all things drinks-related, sharing your flair and knowledge with the team to keep standards high and spirits even higher.
• Stay ahead of the curve, curating a cocktail list and wine pairings that are not only on-trend but push boundaries, ensuring each drink and food pairing surprises and delights. Your deep knowledge of current flavours and trends will be key in creating a dynamic, cohesive menu that feels fresh and relevant at every turn.
• Deliver exceptional service that’s energetic, personable, and flawlessly executed, ensuring that every guest leaves with a smile and the desire to return.
• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the bar, from stock control and inventory management to ordering and maintaining supplier relationships.
• Train and mentor the bar team, ensuring they have the skills, knowledge, and energy to deliver outstanding service while having fun doing it.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and stylish bar environment, making sure that every detail—from glassware to presentation—reflects the bold character of the hotel.

WHAT WE NEED FROM YOU

We hire mostly on personality & potential but here are a few of our requirements... 

To succeed in the role of Head Bartender, you will need the following qualities and skills: 

• Passionate about food and drink, with a sharp understanding of the latest trends in cocktails, wines, and food pairings—always in tune with what’s hot and what’s next.
• Previous supervisory experience, with a proven ability to lead and inspire a team, creating an energetic, lively environment that thrives on great drinks and memorable moments.
• A natural performer, mixing drinks with flair while keeping the atmosphere vibrant and fun.
• Expert in cocktail artistry and wine pairings, ensuring every drink is perfectly crafted and pairs seamlessly with the menu.
• Able to thrive in a fast-paced environment, balancing style, approachability, and a sense of excitement for both your team and guests.
• Dramatic with purpose, always focusing on quality and authenticity.
• Skilled in bar management, from stock control to supplier relations, with a proactive approach to maintaining smooth operations.

WHAT WE OFFER

Why this role?

• Be part of the exciting transformation of The Met Hotel Leeds, a destination unlike any other in the city – This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of something special and take the next step in your hospitality career.
• Work in an environment that values creativity, individuality, and ambition.
• Competitive salary, performance incentives, and room for growth in a dynamic, fast-paced team.
• Help create a bar experience that guests will remember for all the right reasons, from the first sip to the last round.

You will also have access to a benefits package we believe truly works for our people

• Discounted hotel room rates for you and your friends & family
• An additional day’s leave for your birthday
• Enhanced maternity, adoption & shared parental leave
• Course sponsorship & training opportunities
• 30% F&B discount at RBH hotels
• Refer a Friend scheme—earn £250 per referral (up to 5!)
• Wagestream—choose how and when you get paid
• Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Social and wellness events all year round
• Free meals on duty (saving you over £1,000 per year!)

…and much more!

EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES

RBH Hospitality Management is an equal opportunity employer. We believe in hiring a diverse workforce and sustaining an inclusive, people-first culture. If at any point throughout our process you require reasonable adjustments, please contact [email protected].