Job Title: Senior Bartender / Lead Mixologist

Location: Victoria Island (VI), Lagos

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Premium Hospitality / Luxury Lounge & Nightlife

Reports To: Bar Manager / Head of Operations

Role Overview

We are seeking an exceptionally talented, charismatic, and experienced Senior Bartender / Lead Mixologist to join our team at a premier luxury lounge in Victoria Island, Lagos.

As a Senior Bartender, you will be the face of our beverage program. You will combine high-level craft mixology, speed of service, and refined customer service to deliver a world-class night out for our high-net-worth guests, corporate executives, and VIP clientele. Beyond crafting bespoke cocktails, you will help lead bar operations, mentor junior bartenders, maintain inventory standards, and elevate the overall guest experience.

Key Responsibilities

1. Beverage Craft & Mixology

Design, prepare, and serve premium classic cocktails, bespoke signatures, and high-end spirit serves according to established venue recipes and standards.
Stay ahead of global and local cocktail trends, consistently experimenting with homemade syrups, infusions, garnishes, and innovative presentation styles.
Possess deep knowledge of spirits, fine wines, champagne, cigars, and flavor pairings to deliver expert recommendations to guests.

2. Operations & Service Excellence

Deliver rapid, high-precision service during peak high-volume operational hours without sacrificing beverage quality or presentation.
Manage bar setup (mise-en place), ensuring clean, fully stocked stations, pristine glassware, and fresh ingredients prior to opening.
Maintain strict bar hygiene, sanitation, safety, and inventory standards in accordance with Lagos State health regulations and company policy.
Oversee bar opening and closing procedures, including stock counts, spoilage tracking, and equipment maintenance.

3. Leadership & Guest Engagement

Act as a host behind the bar, building authentic rapport with regular patrons, VIP guests, and high-profile clients to drive repeat patronage.
Guide and mentor junior bartenders and bar-backs in mixology techniques, speed, cleanliness, and guest engagement protocols.
Handle customer feedback and special requests with utmost professionalism, discretion, and tact.
Work closely with the floor service team to ensure seamless beverage delivery across lounge and VIP areas.

Requirements & Qualifications

Experience: Minimum of 3–5 years of bartending experience in a luxury hotel, high-end cocktail lounge, or high-volume premium nightlife venue (experience in VI, Ikoyi, or Lekki Phase 1 is strongly preferred).
Skills: Expert proficiency in craft mixology, cocktail creation, speed-pouring, free-pouring accuracy, and bar mechanics.
Product Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of premium international spirits, champagne brands, wine service, and premium cocktail preparation.
Communication: Exceptional verbal English communication skills, high emotional intelligence, and strong interpersonal presence.
Work Ethic: Ability to stand for long periods, thrive under high pressure, and work flexible shifts including nights, weekends, and public holidays.
Certifications: Professional hospitality/bartending certifications (e.g., WSET, local bartending academy diplomas) are an added advantage.

What We Offer

Competitive base salary + service charge / tip sharing structure.
Duty meals and staff transportation support for late-night shifts.
Opportunities for career progression into Bar Management.
A vibrant, upscale, and professional working environment.