Job Description

Lead Bartender – Whiskey Row Experience

At Pursuit Spirits, we’re redefining the whiskey experience. Born from the creators of the award-winning Bourbon Pursuit podcast, we blend our deep industry knowledge with bold creativity to craft unique and high-quality American whiskeys that have captured the hearts of enthusiasts. We make whiskey for those who know good whiskey.

As a small dynamic team, we’re creating a movement. With our soon-to-open visitor experience on Louisville’s historic Whiskey Row, we’ll offer immersive one-of-a-kind experiences, hands-on educational sessions, a retail shop and transformative cocktail and tasting bar for more people to join the pursuit. 

Our Core Values

• We are obsessed with customer success. Our growth is anchored by every distributor, supplier and retail customer that believes in our pursuit.
• We don't take ourselves too seriously but we do seriously good work. Our passion delivers excellence by improving ourselves professionally and personally and we have fun in the pursuit of making moments for others.
• We defy convention and are intentional in action. We continually reimagine ourselves in pursuit of what is next.
• We don't see problems, only solutions. We rely on each other as a team and are quick to resolve issues, while being empowered to make the best decisions with good intentions to further our pursuit.
• We may not agree but we're honest and build trust through accountability. We value diverse perspectives and take collective responsibility, while holding ourselves and each other accountable, in the pursuit of our shared goals.

Why Should You Come Work With Us?

• Be a Trailblazer: We aren’t some stodgy corporation. Work alongside a very small team of passionate individuals who want to shape the future of the whiskey experience in a fast-paced startup environment. 
• Growth and Creativity: You won’t be stuck in a box. Collaborate in a fast-growing, dynamic company that encourages new ideas and creative freedom to discover new solutions.
• Best In Class: Play an integral part in delivering unforgettable moments for whiskey lovers through our products, storytelling, and visitor experience.
• Enjoy the Perks: Join a team that values work-life balance with opportunities for professional growth.

Pursuit Spirits is searching for a creative and experienced Lead Bartender to oversee the cocktail bar program at our Whiskey Row Experience. This individual will bring expert cocktail knowledge, strong leadership skills, and a passion for curating unique, upscale beverage offerings. The Lead Bartender will play a key role in ensuring an exceptional guest experience, leading the bar team, and crafting cocktails that showcase the Pursuit Spirits product line.

Key Responsibilities

Team Leadership & Mentorship

• Oversee the success of the entire bar staff by training them to be world-class and play an integral role in the hiring process.
• Build and manage bar staff schedules to ensure optimal coverage during operating hours.
• Lead by example, setting high standards for customer service and efficiency.

Cocktail Program Development

• Create and maintain an innovative, upscale, and rotational cocktail menu that aligns with the Pursuit Spirits brand.
• Stay updated on industry trends and guest preferences to continually elevate the cocktail program.
• Work with the design team to frequently keep the cocktail menu updated for a better guest experience.

Bar Operations Management

• Efficiently run and manage the cocktail bar during peak traffic times to maintain excellent service standards.
• Oversee daily bar prep, ensuring all ingredients, garnishes, and tools are ready for service.
• Ensure all products are being stored properly, labeled, and FIFO procedures are being followed. 
• Work to continuously improve cost control measures by monitoring purchasing procedures, ensuring accurate inventory when placing orders and managing deadstock items already in house and reviewing sales of items each week.
• Participate in beverage inventory each month and ensure accurate counting and data entry.
• Monitor and maintain the cleanliness, organization, and compliance of the bar area with all health and safety regulations.

Guest Experience

• Foster a welcoming and engaging environment for guests, providing exceptional service that enhances the Whiskey Row Experience.
• Lead guest experiences on the art of cocktails in a classroom setting.
• Work closely with the General Manager, Operations Manager, and Head of Guest Experiences to align on service standards and special events.

Qualifications

Experience :

• Proven experience in a lead or head bartender role in an upscale cocktail bar or similar environment.
• Strong background in cocktail creation, with an emphasis on craft and innovation.
• Demonstrated success in managing bar staff and schedules in a high-volume setting.

Skills :

• Proficient in cocktail techniques, mixology, and bar management.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.
• Ability to thrive under pressure while maintaining attention to detail and guest satisfaction.

Other Requirements :

• Flexibility to work nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Passion for the spirits industry and a strong affinity for Pursuit Spirits’ products.

Why Join Pursuit Spirits?

• Be a key player in creating the ultimate Whiskey Row Experience.
• Collaborate with a passionate and innovative team in the spirits industry.
• Opportunity to showcase your creativity and lead a standout cocktail program.

This is a full-time position with an expected 40 hours per week.

Compensation is a competitive hourly rate plus tips based on experience. Open to salary.

Flexible Hours 

Paid Time Off

Interviews will begin the week of February 17th. 

If you’re an experienced bartender ready to take your career to the next level, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today to join the Pursuit Spirits team and help craft unforgettable experiences for our guests!

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