Director of Beverage Services

We are seeking a strategic and creative leader to join a premier events and hospitality company as the Director of Beverage Services. This senior role is responsible for the vision, strategy, and execution of all beverage operations and programming across large-scale catering and high-volume concession divisions.

The ideal candidate possesses a proven track record of managing multimillion-dollar beverage programs and combines deep operational expertise with an innovative approach to menu curation and guest experience. You will oversee all aspects of the beverage department, from financial management and logistics to team leadership and creative development.

Position Overview

The Director of Beverage Services is a key leadership position that blends operational rigor with a forward-thinking vision. You will deliver high-quality, profitable, and memorable beverage experiences that set industry standards. Success in this role requires a deep understanding of large-scale event logistics, exceptional financial acumen, and a passion for developing programs that inspire both guests and staff.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic & Financial Leadership

• Develop and execute a comprehensive beverage strategy that aligns with financial goals and enhances brand identity.
• Create and manage annual beverage budgets and departmental P&L statements to ensure target profitability.
• Monitor and control Cost of Goods Sold (COGS), labor, and waste through effective systems and processes.
• Lead supplier and distributor contract negotiations to secure competitive pricing and exclusive product offerings.
• Analyze market trends to drive innovation in menu design, sourcing, and program development.

Operational Excellence

• Oversee all beverage logistics, including procurement, production, inventory management, and event execution.
• Implement and maintain scalable systems for ordering, inventory control, and waste reduction to optimize efficiency.
• Ensure absolute compliance with all local and state alcohol regulations, licensing, and permitting for large-scale events.
• Guarantee operational consistency and quality control across all beverage service points.
• Collaborate with logistics, culinary, and warehouse teams to streamline processes and reduce costs.

Creative Programming & Guest Experience

• Curate distinctive and profitable beverage menus for a wide range of events, from luxury galas to high-volume concessions.
• Design seasonal cocktail lists, craft beverage features, and unique specialty bar activations.
• Partner with sales and design teams to develop compelling, beverage-driven promotions and experiential concepts.
• Uphold the highest standards of quality and service to ensure an exceptional guest experience.

Team Development & Leadership

• Recruit, train, and mentor a high-performing team of beverage managers, bartenders, and service staff.
• Build a service-driven culture founded on professionalism, creativity, and accountability.
• Establish clear performance standards, training programs, and career development pathways for the beverage team.
• Lead ongoing training initiatives focused on compliance, service standards, and product knowledge.

Sustainability & Compliance

• Champion and oversee responsible sourcing, waste reduction, and recycling programs within beverage operations.
• Ensure all alcohol service is fully compliant with applicable laws and internal policies.
• Collaborate with internal teams to maintain and advance environmental goals and green business certifications.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressive leadership experience in beverage operations.
• Proven success managing multimillion-dollar beverage programs with both creative and operational components.
• Strong financial management skills, including expertise in budgeting, forecasting, P&L analysis, and vendor negotiation.
• Deep product knowledge of wine, spirits, beer, and non-alcoholic programs, with a demonstrated passion for innovation.
• Expert understanding of licensing, permitting, and alcohol compliance for large-scale events and multi-venue operations.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and collaboration skills.
• Professional certifications (e.g., WSET, Court of Master Sommeliers, Cicerone) are highly preferred.

This position reports to the Vice President of Operations.