Tasting Room & Event Center Manager / Barra of Mendocino

Barra of Mendocino is a renowned family-owned winery and event center nestled in the bucolic surroundings of Redwood Valley, California. Our tasting room offers a relaxed and inviting atmosphere where guests are greeted by friendly and knowledgeable staff, dedicated to providing an exceptional tasting experience of our organically farmed Barra and Girasole wines. And with more than two decades of experience hosting weddings, corporate events, non-profit fundraisers and more, Barra of Mendocino is also one of Mendocino County’s most sought-after special event venues.

We are seeking an experienced and enthusiastic Tasting Room & Event Center Manager to oversee the daily operations of our winery tasting room and special event center. As the Tasting Room & Event Center Manager, you will be responsible for all tasting room operations, wine club management, special event coordination, and ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience for our tasting room guests and special event customers. The ideal candidate will have a passion for providing exemplary customer service, possess excellent communication skills, and have a strong knowledge of wines.

Responsibilities:

1. Customer Service: Ensure all tasting room guests receive exceptional service and have a memorable experience.
2. Staff Management: Recruit, train, and supervise tasting room and special event staff. Schedule employees effectively to ensure consistent coverage for both the tasting room and special events.
3. Tasting Room Operations: Oversee daily operations, including opening and closing procedures, inventory management, cash handling, sales reporting, and website order fulfillment. Manage wine club member recruitment and fulfillment processes.
4. Event Coordination: Plan and execute Barra branded events. Act as the main point of contact for special event clients, guiding them through the event planning process, and ensuring their expectations are exceeded.
5. Marketing & Sales: Working with Dir of Sales/Marketing, develop strategies to attract new tasting room visitors and special event clients. Collaborate with internal teams to create compelling content for social media platforms.
6. Compliance: Ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, including alcohol service laws and health and safety standards.
7. Maintaining Tasting Room Appearance: Ensure the tasting room is clean, organized, and visually appealing at all times.
8. Customer Feedback: Encourage guest engagement via social media, travel apps and other feedback mechanisms (e.g. Google reviews). Implement post-event follow up survey process to gather and analyze customer feedback.
9. Sales and Upselling: Encourage tasting room and wine club sales through upselling techniques, promotions, and effective merchandising.
10. Administrative Tasks: Complete administrative tasks such as inventory management, employee scheduling, pours tracking and sales reporting.

Requirements:

1. Previous experience in a hospitality or customer service role, preferably in a tasting room or similar setting.
2. Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to motivate and manage a team.
3. Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
4. Ability to work independently.
5. Proven organizational skills and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
6. Attention to detail and a commitment to providing high-quality service.
7. Knowledge of applicable laws and regulations regarding alcohol service.
8. Proficiency in basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office and point-of-sale systems.
9. Ability to lift and carry 40 pounds.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Bachelor's degree in hospitality management, business administration, or a related field preferred, but not required.
2. Previous experience in event planning or coordination.
3. Experience with social media marketing and promotional strategies.
4. A passion for wine, with a desire to continually expand knowledge in the field.

Benefits:

•  Competitive salary commensurate with experience
•  Health insurance, paid vacation, personal time off and 8 paid company holidays
•  Wine club commissions and tasting room tips
•  Opportunities for professional development
•  Employee discounts on products

If you meet the qualifications and are excited about the opportunity to lead our tasting room team, we encourage you to apply! Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you would be a great fit for this position.