How to become a bar manager

How to become a Bar Manager

Becoming a bar manager involves gaining hands-on experience in the industry, developing strong leadership and organizational skills, and sometimes obtaining certifications or further education. Here's a guide to pursuing the career:

High School Diploma or Equivalent
Most bar managers start their careers after completing high school or obtaining an equivalent diploma. A basic understanding of math, communication, and customer service learned in high school can be helpful for this role.

On-the-Job Training over Formal Education
Bar managers typically learn much of their trade through on-the-job experience, working their way up from bartender, barback (a support staff member who focuses on keeping the bar stocked, clean, and organized, allowing bartenders to concentrate on making drinks and serving customers), or server positions.

Learning mixology – the art of crafting drinks and cocktails – is essential. A solid foundation in drink recipes and presentation is key to preparing for a bar management role. In addition, practical knowledge gained through managing shifts, training new bartenders and servers, handling customer service, overseeing inventory, and dealing with staff challenges is invaluable.

Postsecondary Education (Optional)
While generally not required, an Associate or Bachelor’s Degree in Hospitality Management or Business Administration can be beneficial, particularly for individuals aiming to work in larger establishments or a management role with corporate chains or high-end venues.

A relevant degree demonstrates a deeper understanding of operations, marketing, financial management, leadership, and customer service – all of which are crucial in managing a bar.

Some schools, community colleges, and industry organizations offer an alternative to earning a degree, in the form of specialized programs or standalone courses in bar management, covering topics ranging from mixology and bar service to inventory management, budgeting, and leadership.

Continuing Education
Regardless of the learning pathway taken to a bar management role, continuing education through industry groups, events, conferences, and workshops can help you stay current with cocktail trends, new beverages, bar technology, and management techniques.

Certifications
There are several certifications that can enhance a bar manager’s knowledge, skills, and credibility. These are some of the industry most prominent ones:

• Alcohol Service Certifications – Offered by various organizations like TIPS (Training for Intervention Procedures) or local state agencies, credentials in this area emphasize responsible alcohol service, recognizing intoxication, and handling issues related to alcohol consumption. This certification validates compliance with legal requirements concerning alcohol service.
• Certified Sommelier – Offered by the Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS), this is the first level of their certification program. It covers wine theory, wine service, and tasting skills.
• Advanced Sommelier – This is the second level in the Court of Master Sommeliers program. The Advanced certification entails a more comprehensive and challenging examination, testing advanced knowledge in wine theory, service, and tasting.
• Master Sommelier – This is the highest level of certification from the Court of Master Sommeliers. The Master designation is extremely prestigious and challenging to achieve. It requires in-depth expertise in wine, service, and tasting. There are only a few Master Sommeliers worldwide.
• The Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) – The WSET offers a range of wine and spirits certifications, including Level 1 (Introductory), Level 2 (Intermediate), Level 3 (Advanced), and Level 4 (Diploma). The WSET Diploma is a highly respected credential for wine professionals.
• The Society of Wine Educators (SWE) – SWE offers several certification programs: the Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW), Certified Specialist of Spirits (CSS), Certified Wine Educator (CWE), Certified Spirits Educator (CSE), and Hospitality/Beverage Specialist Certificate (HBSC). These educational programs are internationally recognized and highly regarded in the wine and spirits industry.
• The Cicerone Certification Program – This program offers four levels of certification for beer professionals, beginning with the fundamentals and progressing to the most complex and demanding. Topics include beer styles, history, brewing, and service. The levels are Certified Beer Server, Certified Cicerone, Advanced Cicerone, and Master Cicerone.
• Certified Sake Professional (CSP) – The Sake Education Council offers the Certified Sake Professional certification. It covers various aspects of sake, including history, production, and service.
• Certified Restaurant Manager (CRM) – This certification, offered by ServSuccess, is endorsed by the National Restaurant Association. The CRM program leading to the credential is designed to validate critical competencies for restaurant and bar professionals, including leadership, customer service, and financial management.
• Certified Hospitality Supervisor (CHS) – This is a globally recognized and international certificate accredited by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI). The CHS program is designed to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in supervisory roles within the broader hospitality industry, encompassing hotels, resorts, and other lodging establishments. Focusing on general hospitality management, staff supervision, and guest relations, it’s beneficial for bar managers working in hotels or resorts.
• Certified Manager (CM) – Offered by the Institute of Certified Professional Managers (ICPM), the CM certification, covering general management and leadership skills, is applicable across industries and provides a strong foundation in managing teams, budgeting, and strategic decision making.
• First Aid and CPR Certification – Having certification in first aid and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is useful in any hospitality role. These certifications demonstrate commitment to safety and preparedness to respond to potential emergencies.

Professional Organizations
In addition to the certifying bodies referenced above in the Certifications section, the following organizations also support the bar management community, and the hospitality industry at large:

• United States Bartenders' Guild (USBG) – The USBG is a national network of bartenders and bar professionals focused on advancing the craft of bartending and promoting responsible service of alcohol. Membership provides access to networking opportunities, educational resources, workshops, and industry events. The USBG also holds competitions like the ‘Bartender of the Year’ award and advocates for bartenders and the bar industry.
• International Bartenders Association (IBA) – The IBA is a global organization that represents professional bartenders, providing educational resources and training opportunities for bartenders and bar managers around the world. IBA members can participate in international competitions and connect with other professionals in the bartending and bar management industries.
• American Distilling Institute (ADI) – The ADI is an organization for craft distillers, but it is also relevant for bar managers working in venues that serve craft spirits, whiskey, and other distilled beverages.
• National Association for Catering and Events (NACE) – NACE is a professional organization dedicated to the catering and events industry, which includes managing events and banquets within restaurants, bars, or other venues.
• Network of Executive Women in Hospitality (NEWH) – This is a network supporting women in restaurant and broader hospitality leadership roles. It provides mentorship, resources, and a community for female professionals in the food and beverage sector and related industries.
• Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) – Primarily catering to financial managers within hospitality, HFTP provides valuable resources for bar and restaurant managers interested in learning more about financial operations, technology in the industry, and managerial leadership.