Tasting Room Assistant Manager at Blake's Orchard, Inc. – ARMADA, Michigan

The Assistant Tasting Room Manager supports the General Manager in overseeing the daily operations, team leadership, and guest experience of the Blake’s Tasting Room. This role is hands-on and guest-facing, focused on driving service excellence, staff performance, sales growth, and operational consistency. The Assistant Manager plays a key role in building a cohesive “One Blake’s” culture while ensuring the tasting room operates efficiently, safely, and in alignment with company goals.

Core Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Development

• Support the General Manager in leading, motivating, and supervising tasting room staff including bartenders, servers, and greeters.
• Foster a positive, accountable, and team-oriented culture aligned with Blake’s values.
• Assist with hiring, onboarding, training, coaching, and performance management of staff.
• Develop and implement training initiatives that reinforce service standards, safety, and brand expectations.
• Maintain open, consistent communication with team members and leadership.

Tasting Room Operations

• Assist in managing day-to-day tasting room operations to ensure smooth service and exceptional guest experiences.
• Ensure proper staffing, scheduling, and coverage for all hours of operation.
• Support planning and execution of special activities, promotions, and events to enhance business and guest engagement.
• Maintain accurate tip distribution and reporting in accordance with company policies.

Guest Experience & Sales Performance

• Lead by example on the floor, ensuring high standards of hospitality and service quality.
• Respond effectively to guest questions, feedback, and complaints to ensure satisfaction and value.
• Support initiatives to promote sales.
• Assist in achieving or exceeding budgeted sales and profitability goals set by the General Manager and ownership.

Communication & Collaboration

• Participate in weekly manager meetings, KPI meetings, and company-wide team meetings as required.
• Serve as a liaison between tasting room staff and General Manager to ensure alignment and clarity.

Safety, Sanitation & Compliance

• Protect guests and employees by ensuring safety, sanitation, and health standards are consistently met.
• Enforce compliance with all company policies, health regulations, and established risk mitigation plans.
• Address safety concerns promptly and escalate issues when necessary.

Qualifications

Required:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a restaurant, bar, or similar hospitality environment.
• 1–2 years of supervisory or leadership experience.
• ServSafe Certification (or ability to obtain).
• Proven ability to lead and coordinate teams of 10 or more employees.
• Strong guest service, problem-solving, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Solid understanding of hospitality industry trends.
• Ability to perform basic business math, including sales reporting and food and beverage costing.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong understanding of marketing and sales principles.