Bar and Dining Services Manager

Job Title: Bar and Dining Services Manager

Department: Food and Beverage / Hospitality
Reports to: Director of Hospitality
Location: Riverside Theatre
Employment Type: Full-time (Includes nights, weekends, and flexible scheduling based on operational need)

Job Summary:

Riverside Theatre is seeking an experienced and service-driven Bar and Dining Services Manager to oversee all front-of-house food and beverage operations within our performing arts venue. This role plays a key part in shaping the patron experience—from pre-show dining and intermission bars to post-show receptions and special events. The ideal candidate will bring a passion for hospitality, a strong operational mindset, and a flair for managing a high-volume, fast-paced environment that serves a diverse audience of theatre-goers, artists, and community members.

Key Responsibilities:

Venue & Operations Management

• Lead the daily operations of all food and beverage areas, including Lobby & Donor Lounge bars, portable bars, concession and the pre-show dining.
• Ensure smooth service during performances, rehearsals, and special events, with a focus on efficiency and timing around curtain times and intermissions.
• Maintain compliance with health, safety, and liquor licensing regulations specific to performance venues.
• Coordinate staff and setups for theatre events, receptions, fundraisers, rentals, and other hospitality needs.
• Manage linen ordering, setup layouts, and execution of F&B setups in coordination with stage and event crews.
• Serve as a liaison between the F&B department and the artistic, production, and development teams to support collaborative event planning and execution.
• This position will assist with bartending, food service setup, and other operational tasks as directed to maintain efficient service and a high-quality guest experience.
• Attend Weekly Departmental Meetings.

Staff Leadership & Training

• Recruit, train, and supervise front-of-house F&B staff, including bartenders, servers, and food runners.
• Create and maintain staff schedules, ensuring adequate coverage for matinee, evening and weekend performances as well as special events.
• Foster a positive, professional environment that supports the theatre's mission and values.
• Conduct performance reviews and provide ongoing coaching and development.

Guest Experience

• Champion a welcoming, attentive, and engaging service culture aligned with the expectations of a live performance environment.
• Handle guest concerns and special requests with discretion and professionalism.

Inventory & Cost Control

• Manage inventory and purchasing of beverages, snacks, and service supplies, ensuring product availability and minimal waste.
• Oversee POS systems, daily sales reconciliation, and reporting.
• Assist with budget tracking and contribute to revenue and cost-efficiency goals.

Qualifications:

• 3–5 years of experience in hospitality or food and beverage management, preferably in a cultural, arts, or entertainment venue.
• Demonstrated leadership and supervisory experience.
• Knowledge of bar operations, food handling, and event service protocols.
• Familiarity with POS systems, basic accounting, and inventory software. Knowledge of Square a plus.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays tied to performance calendars.
• Food safety and responsible alcohol service certifications (preferred).
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs and remain on feet for extended periods during events.

Key Competencies:

• Leadership & team development.
• Patron-first mindset & service excellence.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to thrive under pressure and during high-traffic periods (e.g., intermission).
• Creative problem-solving and adaptability.
• Commitment to collaboration in a multi-departmental arts environment.

Riverside Theatres' core values are at the forefront of all that we do – Ensemble Staffing; Pursuit of Perfection; Community Leadership. Valuing cultural, intellectual, and experience-based diversity, being inclusive when meeting the needs of the staff and audience, and pursuing perfection enables us to provide a welcoming, safe, and creative environment for all that participate.

LAST REVISED: 11/7/2025