Taproom Manager (Full time)
Taproom Leader/Manager Job Description
Company Overview
Kyoto Brewing Co (herein KBC) is a craft beer brewery, based south-west of Kyoto station, that started making beer in 2015. Heavily inspired by traditional Belgian methods and the modern American craft beer movement, we have focused on crafting a wide range of styles, whilst looking for ways to positively impact our community.
Company Context
In May, KBC reached 10 years of operation. In our last year, we have undergone much change in our brew program and our update as a brand and company culminated in our 10 year anniversary festival, “Naminamito”, held at Higashihonganji temple. We are continuing to grow and evolve as a company, and are aiming at increasing by 20% this year.
Our taproom is for many the first connection with Kyoto Brewing, and the place to try the widest selection of our beers, as well as to see the place where all of our beer is lovingly made. It is a simple set up with cash-on payment for draft beer, or cans and goods to take away, with customers welcome to bring their own food or enjoy food from the food truck on days when we have one visiting.
Position Background
The taproom, consisting of a 1st floor standing space, a 2nd floor seated area, and further outdoor seating, is undergoing a brush up this summer, with the aim of expanding from the current 3 day to 5 day operations, and we are looking to hire a full-time taproom manager to lead the team in the hope that we can further improve the customer experience.
This is a new position, and therefore the first time we have had a full-time dedicated taproom leader.
About the Taproom
We currently operate on Fridays from 5 to 9 p.m., and on Saturdays and Sundays from 12 to 6 p.m. (12 to 7 p.m. from May to September)
We have 2 staff on Fridays and 3 staff on weekends, most of who are part-time workers
Our taproom has 10 taps that serve craft beer, a growler filler, and can fridge for takeaway
We also sell a wide range of merchandise in the taproom, from glasswear to t-shirts, and from bottle openers to coozies
The first floor of the taproom has a standing table, around which regulars and those visiting alone often choose to stop by and mingle, and a second floor area where those wishing to drink quietly, and those who come in groups often choose. Both areas look out on the brewery itself.
We also prepare seating outdoors, with this being an especially popular area in spring and autumn
There is no food preparation in the brewery, but we frequently get food trucks visiting, who operate for free on a win-win basis; customers can also bring their own food
Table service is not offered, and so we operate on a strictly cash-on basis, with customers being asked to bring glassware back and to clear their tables when they leave
About Responsibilities
The taproom manager is responsible for working alongside company management to ensure the effective rolling out of company taproom initiatives. He/she is ultimately responsible for ensuring that the taproom experience of the customers is up to the highest standards, and also that the staff are knowledgeable and able to answer customer enquiries to a high level, as well as effectively representing the company properly.
The taproom manager is expected to be proactive in thinking of ways to improve the customer experience, to increase numbers of customers, and to increase overall taproom sales. He/she is expected to propose solutions to management, and after deciding on the direction, to effectively manage and rolle them out.
The taproom manager is expected to act as a playing manager, serving customers alongside the other staff, and making sure that the customer experience is as good as possible, whilst also ensuring that operations move smoothly, in order to avoid long lines during busy times, and ensure that bathroom facilities, as well as tables and drinking areas, are kept clean.
It is the job of the taproom manager to make sure that stocks are well maintained, and that the customers are welcomed well when they come in.
The taproom manager is also expected to train and develop staff in order to make them both effective and efficient at their daily jobs, but also to develop relationships with regular customers, leave new customers with a positive impression, to recommend beers that will effectively fit customers’ preferences, and share with customers what Kyoto Brewing is, and what it stands for.
Main Responsibilies
Taproom planning and preparation:
Checking staff availability, and managing taproom shifts
Coordinating with food vendors (kitchen cars) and managing their shifts
Creating beer lineups to ensure that the lineup is as appealing to customers as possible and offers beer variation, whilst effectively managing the inventory
Making sure that the taproom is prepared and cleaned ahead of opening
Ensuring that beer and merchandise is effectively stocked
Ensuring that serving equipment is properly cleaned and maintained
Team management:
Sharing important information effectively with different staff within the taproom team
Ensuring that handover from one day to the next is done properly
Make sure that company direction and its intent for the taproom is communicated and carried out effectively
Helping in interviewing and hiring of new staff
Organise and manage training of new and existing taproom staff
Effective taproom operations:
Make sure that the taproom is able to open on time, and that taproom members are ready for the day, including familiarising themselves will with the beers being served.
Ensure that displays of all merchandise and beers are correct and as appealing to the eye as possible.
Ensure that the taproom and all facilities, including toilets, are clean and well maintained, as well as well stocked at all times.
Make sure that customers are able to receive their orders quickly without having to line up for too long, whilst also being given a positive experience without the impression of being rushed.
Prevent potential future bottlenecks in operation such as the building up of glassware, packaging preparation, etc.
Act as an example to staff on service, effective and efficient operations, and customer engagement.
Qualifications
A minimum of 2 years in food and beverage service industry
Experience in management, or with a leadership role in a bar or restaurant environment (preferred)
Must be a strong team player and have experience with working in a team to achieve a common goal
Effective independent time management
Excellent communication skills with peers and managers
Must maintain a high level of attention to detail while juggling multiple tasks
Ability to maintain a positive mental attitude even in the face of setbacks and schedule changes.
Must currently reside in Japan or have ability to quickly get visa
Excellent written and verbal communication skills:
Highly proficient in spoken and written Japanese (JLPT N2 minimum equivalent)
English language ability:
Preferred – intermediate or above in spoken and written (Eiken Grade2 equivalent)
At minimum – conversational level (you can communicate on everyday topics) English
Physical Demands & Working Conditions
Heavy lifting: moving kegs up to 25kg in weight, as well as cases of cans
Must be capable of standing for extended periods
Handling chemicals: cleaning the taproom equipment involves handling alkaline (caustic) solutions, and so responsibility in following of safety protocols and proper handling techniques is important
Employee Benefits and Job Details
Ideal Start Date: Early-mid August
Contract Type: Full-Time
Contract period: initial 6-month training period, followed by a long-term contract upon consent by both parties
Monthly Salary: 250,000 – 300,000yen (dependent on experience; includes up to 20 hours of overtime)
Work Schedule:
Regular Schedule:
13:00 – 22:00 (Wed-Fri)
10:00-19:00 (Sat-Sun)
Shift Schedule: weekend 8-hour shift between 10:00-20:00 depending on the season
Overtime required as needed
Time Off: 2 days/week (normally Monday/Tuesday), National Holidays, Paid Leave (12+ days), Summer Vacation (3 days), Year End (2-3 days), Sick Leave (5 days)
Benefits and Perks:
Health and Social Insurance
Multicultural work environment
Monthly stipend + discounts on beer and merchandise
How to Apply
Please send a resume, cover letter, and CV to recruit@kyotobrewing.com. Please clearly state what it is about KBC that makes you want to work here and why you are the best fit for the position.