Job Description: Head Barman & Barista

Industry: Luxury Italian Restaurant / Fine Dining
Location: Nairobi, Kenya

K
ey Responsibilities

Beverage Leadership & Craftsmanship

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  Curate, execute, and continuously refine a world-class cocktail, wine, spirits, and coffee program aligned with a premium Italian dining concept.

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  Masterfully prepare classic and signature cocktails, Italian aperitifs, digestifs, and specialty coffees to 5-star standards.

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  Ensure precise execution, presentation, and consistency of all beverages served.

Bar & Coffee Operations Management

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  Oversee day-to-day bar and barista operations, ensuring efficiency, cleanliness, and compliance with health and safety standards.

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  Manage inventory, stock control, ordering, wastage reduction, and cost optimization without compromising quality.

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  Work closely with management on menu pricing, supplier selection, and product sourcing.

Guest Experience Excellence

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  Deliver personalized, refined, and memorable guest experiences reflective of luxury hospitality standards.

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  Engage confidently with guests, offering expert recommendations on cocktails, wines, spirits, and coffee pairings.

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  Handle guest feedback professionally and proactively, maintaining the restaurants premium reputation.

Team Leadership & Training

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  Lead, mentor, and train bartenders and baristas to uphold exceptional service and product standards.

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  Develop SOPs, training manuals, and service rituals for the bar and coffee sections.

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  Foster a culture of professionalism, creativity, and accountability within the team.

Creativity & Brand Alignmen
t

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  Innovate seasonally inspired beverage menus that complement Italian cuisine and brand identity.

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  Stay current with global trends in mixology, specialty coffee, and luxury hospitality.

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  Represent the brand with polish, passion, and attention to detail at all times.

Requirements

Qualifications & Experience

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  Degree or diploma in hospitality, hotel & restaurant management, food & beverage, Culinary arts or its equivalent.

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  Minimum 5+ years’ experience in high-end, luxury, or 5-star restaurants, hotels, or fine-dining establishments.

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  Proven experience as a Head Barman, Lead Mixologist, Senior Barista, or similar senior role.

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  Strong expertise in classic and modern mixology, Italian beverages, wine, spirits, and specialty coffee.

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  International exposure or experience in Michelin-level or luxury hospitality environments is a strong advantage.

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  Formal training or certifications in mixology, barista skills, wine, or hospitality management are preferred.

Key Competencies

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  Exceptional attention to detail and presentation

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  Strong leadership and training capability

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  High emotional intelligence and guest-centric mindset

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  Commercial awareness and cost control skills

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  Creativity balanced with discipline and consistency

What Success Looks Like

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  A refined, seamless, and memorable bar and coffee experience that enhances brands luxury positioning.

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  Highly trained, motivated, and professional bar and barista team.

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  Beverage offerings that match the sophistication of a 5-star Italian dining experience.