Beverage Operations Manager at Keeneland Association Inc – Lexington, Kentucky

The Beverage Operations Manager at Keeneland Hospitality is responsible for the strategic execution and hands-on management of all beverage operations across the property; including race meets, private events, and large-scale hospitality functions. This role plays a vital part in upholding Keeneland’s reputation for excellence by ensuring that every bar, concession, and beverage service area reflects the organization’s high standards of quality, consistency, and guest experience.

With deep expertise in beverage programs, inventory management, and team leadership, the Beverage Operations Manager will collaborate closely with the Purchasing Department, Food & Beverage Director, and Director of Concessions to develop and sustain operational systems that drive efficiency and financial accountability. The ideal candidate is highly organized, forward-thinking, and passionate about creating beverage experiences that align with the culinary vision and event atmosphere of each service environment.

This manager must have a sharp eye for detail, a passion for hospitality, and the ability to train, coach, and motivate a large, seasonal beverage team to deliver service that is seamless, responsible, and memorable. The Beverage Operations Manager is expected to have a strong focus on preparation, execution, and post-event follow-through.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include but may not be limited to the following:

• Works closely with the purchasing department to ensure proper beverage distribution throughout campus.
• Works close with concessions, dining and F&B director to ensure proper programs are in place and supported.
• Must have extensive knowledge of bar and beverage menus.
• Able to complete product request orders utilizing purchasing SOP’s to ensure we have products in all areas of service.
• Ability to forecast product based off historical and real time data to ensure financial flow is mitigated to the bottom line on P&L.
• Works alongside purchasing to maintain monthly inventory.
• Effectively uses and tracks inventory, items, beer wine and liquor based off purchasing guidelines.
• The ability to write beverage menus utilizing current trends and create new beverage programs.
• Must be able to schedule and manage beverage department staff from race meet to special events.
• Must be able to train team on proper procedures, use of equipment and consistent recipe preparation.
• Must have a knowledge of product merchandizing techniques, consistency, and quality control.
• Must follow proper cash handling and register operational guidelines.
• Must complete accurate daily paperwork.
• Ability to build and maintain a craft cocktail program that pushes and sets trends to match culinary programs.
• Follows all OSHA safety rules and immediately reports injuries or safety violations to direct report and Human Resource department.
• Ability to adhere and follow state liquor guidelines to ensure complete compliance.
• Follows responsible alcohol service procedures and policies.
• Communicates customer and staff issues to Director of Concession and Beverage.
• Able to problem solve quickly.
• Ability to push the culture in a positive manner and help lift teams up to Keeneland standards.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• High School Diploma required. Trade School or College experience preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years management experience in bar/restaurant plus banquet and catering events.
• Cashier, money handling, and inventory experience a plus.
• Complete knowledge of Drink Preparation.
• Proficient in Microsoft applications and programs applicable to the position.
• Ability to manage in a diverse environment with a focus on customer service. Communicating effectively with clients and support staff is a must.
• Large volume experience is a preferred.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

Driver’s license and a Kentucky Horse Racing Commission License.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds. Position requires being on feet and walking for several hours at a time while moving through large crowds. Frequently reaches, lifts, stoops, bends, lifts and cleans to maintain service and storage areas. Assists with loading and unloading trucks.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment can be very loud.