Job Description

Direct Report: Executive Chef

Works closely with: Executive Chef, Events & Partnership Manager.

About Ham Polo Club

Ham Polo Club was founded by true polo enthusiasts 100 years ago and it continues to thrive as London's last remaining polo club thanks to that same passion. It is rich in spirit, community, and a standard of polo that is genuinely enjoyed by both players and spectators.

As a distinctive London institution with nearly 30 acres of green space beside Richmond Park and along the Thames creating an atmosphere few venues in the city can rival.

Ham Polo Club remains one of the UK's most authentic polo venues, defined not by glamour but by tradition, commitment, and an enduring love for the sport. The Club attracts a wonderfully diverse audience: from long-established London circles to young newcomers and families with children. These varied groups interact effortlessly, creating a uniquely warm, inclusive, and vibrant environment.

The Opportunity

For the 2026 season, and in response to the evolving needs of the Club and its Members, Ham Polo Club is bringing its hospitality division in-house. This represents an exciting new chapter in the Club's history.

We are seeking passionate, motivated individuals who share our values and enthusiasm, and who want to play a meaningful role in shaping the future of the Club. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to an institution, leave a meaningful impact, and be part of a team that takes pride in delivering exceptional experiences for our Members and guests.

Purpose of the Role: The bar manager is responsible for the smooth operation, profitability, and guest experience of the bar. The role combines leadership, financial control, service standards, and to ensure this is all done legally.

Bar Operations & Beverage Leadership

Oversee all bar operations across Ham Polo Club, delivering consistently high standards of service, efficiency, and professionalism.o Maintain exceptional beverage quality, stock control and service consistency for all club and private events. o Ensure high standard opening and closing procedures are followed, by maintaining best practice in cleanliness, stock control, venue security, and presentation. o Manage bar stock levels, ordering, storage, and inventory controls to minimise waste, control costs, and ensure product availability.
Staff Management & Team Culture

Train, supervise, and motivate the bar staff team.o Deliver high-quality training on product knowledge, cocktail preparation, service standards, and responsible alcohol service.o Create staff rotas and manage labour costs in line with business needs.o Promote a high-performance, service-driven culture with clear expectations and consistent communication.o Delegate tasks efficiently and ensure all staff understand their roles during busy service periods.
Customer Experience & Member Relations

Deliver warm, professional, and confident service to members, guests, and visitors.o Build rapport with regulars and members, enhancing the clubhouse community experience.o Read the room and adjust service style to match the atmosphere of each event or match day.o Handle complaints or issues calmly and constructively, ensuring positive outcomes where possible.o Represent the club with professionalism and hospitality at all times.
Beverage Knowledge, Menu Development & Trends

Maintain expert knowledge of spirits, cocktails, wines, beers, and premium beverage categories, with a strong understanding of current trends and seasonal ingredients.o Design, develop, and evolve beverage menus, including signature cocktails, that reflect the Ham Polo Club brand and guest expectations.o Develop bespoke cocktail and drinks offerings for weddings, private events, and VIP functions.o Apply wine and food pairing principles, working closely with the Executive Chef on menus and special events.o Ensure consistent drink quality, preparation standards, and presentation across all services.
Stock Control, Ordering & Waste Management

Manage all stock ordering for alcohol, soft drinks, garnishes, glassware, and bar supplies.o Build strong relationships with suppliers, negotiate pricing, and review supplier performance regularly.o Maintain accurate stock rotation and inventory control systems.o Reduce waste through portion control, staff training, and efficient stock management.o Maintain detailed records of stock levels, orders, waste logs, and supplier invoices.o Understand gross profit margins and ensure beverage profitability through smart costing, upselling, and menu design.
Compliance, Safety & Licensing

Ensure all bar operations comply with licensing laws and alcohol regulations.o Maintain strict hygiene and safety standards in all bar areas.o Keep all compliance documentation, bar maintenance logs, and temperature or safety records up to date.o Train all staff on responsible alcohol service, underage prevention, and intoxication management.o Ensure bar equipment is well maintained, safe, and fully operational.
Events, Match Days & Clubhouse Functions

Support club events with efficient bar setup, staffing, stock preparation, and service delivery.o Oversee fast-paced service, ensuring smooth operation across multiple bars.o Work collaboratively with the Events Team, Executive Chef, and FOH leads to deliver exceptional member and guest experiences.
Skills & Experience Required

Strong leadership and team development skills.o Excellent beverage knowledge across spirits, cocktails, wines, and beers.o Confident mixology skills and ability to design signature cocktails.o Experience managing high-volume bars or multi-bar operations.o Strong organisation and ability to multitask under pressure.o Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.o Professional, confident, and approachable with strong problem-solving abilities.o Strong cost control and business understanding.o Knowledge of licensing laws, alcohol regulations, and responsible service practices.o Ability to remain calm and make smart decisions during busy periods.o Reliable, punctual, and committed to leading by example.o Experience in events-led venues or hospitality club is preferred.
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 24,420.00-38,178.13 per year

Benefits:

Additional leave Company pension Discounted or free food Employee discount Free parking Health & wellbeing programme On-site gym On-site parking Sick pay
Work Location: In person