Beverage Manager

Ballyhoo Hospitality seeks an experienced Beverage Manager with a robust background in wine and spirits to join our third Sophia Steak, located in River North. We are an expanding restaurant group offering opportunities for professional development. The Beverage Manager will be entrusted with the oversight of the Beverage Program for a designated restaurant within our group. Responsibilities encompass curating wine selections, strategically managing the beverage program from both financial and creative perspectives, and leading ongoing educational initiatives for the Front of House team while cultivating hospitality service - oriented culture.

Benefits & Perks: Health, Dental, and Voluntary Benefits Package, bonus potential, 401(k) program, paid parental leave, paid vacation, career mentorship and growth potential, and dining incentives across our 12+ establishments!

About Sophia Steak: Sophia Steak is a Ballyhoo Hospitality concept that reimagines the classic steakhouse through a modern neighborhood lens, with locations in Downtown Chicago, Wilmette, and Lake Forest. Known for prime steaks, fresh seafood, seasonal dishes, and indulgent sides, the restaurant balances timeless steakhouse traditions with a vibrant and approachable dining experience.
Each location features a stylish dining room and lively bar where guests gather for celebratory dinners, business meals, or relaxed evenings over classic cocktails and a thoughtfully curated wine list. The atmosphere blends polished design with warm hospitality, creating a destination that feels both refined and welcoming. Sophia Steak locations also feature elegant private dining spaces designed for celebrations, private events, and group gatherings.

OVERVIEW:

The Beverage Manager is accountable for all facets of the Beverage Menu Program, ensuring adherence to Ballyhoo Hospitality Standards. This includes collaborative engagement with colleagues, comprehensive training and leadership to achieve set objectives in sales, cost control, employee retention, guest service excellence, food quality, and sanitation

GENERAL EXPECTATIONS:

• Act with the utmost integrity and professional knowledge to uphold the established culture, values, and mission of Ballyhoo Hospitality and its partners
• Ensure that all guests receive welcome, professional gracious service at all times
• Execute all job responsibilities with efficiency, respect, professionalism, teamwork, comprehensive knowledge, patience, keen awareness, compassion, and courtesy
• Collaborate closely with the management team to cultivate a positive and respectful work environment
• Possess a thorough understanding of all programs, procedures, standards, specifications, guidelines, and training protocols
• Propose constructive solutions to issues and contribute actively to the decision-making processes.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Collaborate with Beverage Director in menu development
• Conduct weekly beverage inventory and manage the beverage cost within budgetary constraints
• Manage weekly beverage orders and ensure proper inventory pars are met
• Direct and actively participate in beverage service during operational hours
• Serve as the primary point of contact for wine service, demonstrating comprehensive knowledge of the wine list
• Conduct training and development for staff on all aspects of beverage knowledge
• Ensure the proper use and maintenance of all beverage equipment

QUALIFICATIONS:

The Beverage Manager must successfully fulfill each essential duty. The following qualifications represent the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. A minimum of two years of supervisory or management experience is required.

• Sommelier certification or equivalent experience in an upscale environment is preferred
• Excellent communication skills are essential
• A genuine interest in creating exceptional guest experiences through hospitality
• Solutions-oriented approach with the ability to support restaurant goals and objectives
• Prior experience with restaurant management software systems (i.e. Toast, Resy, Hotschedules, R365) is preferred.
• Familiarity with diverse culinary styles and the ability to provide optimal beverage pairings
• Passion for training and developing staff and peers

Why Join Us?

• Opportunity to work in a dynamic and friendly environment.
• Gain valuable experience in the hospitality industry.
• Be part of a team that values growth and development.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit their resume and a brief cover letter outlining their relevant experience.

Ballyhoo Hospitality Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.