Venue Manager

Venue Manager – Lake Bar Wānaka

Situated right on the waterfront with stunning views across Lake Wānaka, Lake Bar is a vibrant, high-volume gastropub and community venue. Known for local craft beers, sports on the big screen, live entertainment, and hearty Kiwi pub dining, we are a staple spot for locals and tourists alike.

Role Overview

We are seeking an energetic, hands-on Venue Manager to run the day-to-day operations and serve as the face of Lake Bar. In this leadership role, you will drive front-of-house service, manage and motivate our team, and actively grow the business through creative marketing, live music bookings, and regular event programming.

Key Requirements

• Experience: Minimum 3 years of relevant hospitality industry experience, including proven leadership or supervisor/management experience in a busy venue.
• Licensing: Valid Manager’s Certificate (LCQ) is required.
• Work Rights: Must hold New Zealand Citizenship or Permanent Residency.
• Skills: Excellent interpersonal skills, team leadership, event organisation, social media marketing savvy, and strong operational organisation.
• Availability: Full flexibility to work peak trade hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays.

Complete Key Duties \& Responsibilities1. Day-to-Day Operations \& Service Leadership

• Lead daily front-of-house floor operations, opening and closing procedures, and cash management.
• Maintain a visible presence on the floor, acting as the welcoming face of the venue for regular locals and visitors.
• Deliver exceptional customer service and handle guest feedback or queries promptly and professionally.
• Monitor stock levels, handle ordering, manage supplier relationships, and oversee weekly inventory audits.

2. Business Growth, Events \& Marketing

• Plan, organise, and execute entertainment schedules, including booking live music acts, DJs, sports screenings, and seasonal events.
• Develop strategies to drive foot traffic during off-peak periods and maximize revenue during peak seasons.
• Manage social media pages (Facebook, Instagram), local marketing campaigns, and community engagement initiatives.

3. Team Leadership, Training \& Rostering

• Recruit, onboard, train, and manage front-of-house, bar, and floor staff.
• Create weekly rosters that balance operational needs with labor cost targets based on trading forecasts.
• Build a high-performing team culture, set service standards, and conduct performance reviews.

4. Compliance, Health \& Safety

• Ensure 100% compliance with the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 and serve as a designated Duty Manager on duty.
• Enforce food safety standards and strict adherence to the venue's Health \& Safety regulations.
• Maintain equipment, coordinate minor repairs, and ensure clean, high-standard venue presentation at all times.

5. Remuneration

• Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent position
• Guaranteed Hours: 40 hours per week
• Pay Rate: $32.00 – $38.00 per hour (commensurate with experience)
• Shift Pattern: Flexible 7-day roster, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays

How to Apply

If you have the experience and passion to lead one of Wānaka's top waterfront spots, apply today! Send your CV and Cover Letter to:

• Email: [email protected]
• Subject Line: Application: Venue Manager – [Your Name]
• In Person: Drop off your resume to management at 155 Ardmore Street, Wānaka.

Pay: $32.00 – $38.00 per hour

Work Location: In person