Job Title

The Bowery Group, which includes Cookshop, Vic's, Shuka, Shukette, and Rosie's, is seeking a passionate and experienced Beverage Director to lead our beverage program across all locations. Our collective philosophy is rooted in seasonality, sustainability, and warm hospitality, while maintaining a distinct culinary and neighborhood identity for each restaurant. As the Beverage Director, you will oversee the development and execution of the beverage program, ensuring excellence in product selection, staff training, service, and financial performance. Your role will be key in maintaining the consistency and quality of our beverage offerings across all locations, while aligning with the unique identity of each restaurant. Responsibilities: Training and Development: Develop, implement, and conduct training programs in collaboration with the Director of Recruiting and Development. Train and mentor bar staff on cocktail preparation, recipe development, and technique. Educate all guest-facing staff on product knowledge, including wines, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages. Maintain updated product guides for all beverage offerings. Participate in staff pre-shift meetings to reinforce training and service standards. Product and Compliance: Design, in collaboration with the chef and partners, a beverage program that aligns with the restaurant's cuisine and company philosophy. Source and select spirits, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages with a focus on small-batch, local producers and seasonality. Oversee the maintenance of the beverage management system (Bevager) to ensure accuracy in pricing, recipes, and financial data. Work with General Managers to maintain the cleanliness, repair, and maintenance of all beverage-related areas and equipment. Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and liquor laws, including NYC Dept. of Health and NYS Liquor Authority regulations. Uphold Bowery Group policies regarding the receipt of alcoholic products, including vendor samples and promotional items. Service and Leadership: Ensure beverage service aligns with each restaurant's unique service style and personality through in-service training and observation. Provide leadership and support to beverage managers, beverage supervisors, and General Managers. Serve as a key liaison between ownership, directors, and restaurant managers regarding the beverage program. Foster a culture of professionalism and hospitality, engaging with staff and guests to enhance the overall dining experience. Financial and Operations: Oversee weekly inventory for liquor, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages in conjunction with restaurant management. Analyze inventory data, investigating inconsistencies and mentoring restaurant teams in financial best practices. Manage purchasing and receiving of all beverage products, ensuring optimal pricing and turnover of perishable items. Work with General Managers to calculate and enforce purchasing budgets for each location. Negotiate with vendors for best pricing and support for menu placements. Monitor costs to ensure COGS targets are met and participate in PandL meetings to review financial performance. Ensure accurate entry of invoices in Bevager and oversee timely processing for payment. Qualifications: 5+ years of experience in beverage program management, preferably in a multi-location restaurant group. Wine certification from a recognized accrediting institution, such as the Court of Master Sommeliers or the Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET), is required. Strong knowledge of spirits, beer, and cocktails, with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. Proven leadership in training and developing hospitality teams. Deep understanding of financial metrics, cost control, and vendor negotiations. Ability to work collaboratively with chefs, partners, and restaurant leadership. Strong communication and organizational skills. Familiarity with beverage management software (e.g., Bevager) is a plus. Must have or be willing to obtain necessary alcohol service certifications.