Director, Beverage Operations

RDG introduces its first restaurant-concept brand, MILA, which offers guests a culinary journey through exquisite MediterrAsian cuisine, opened in January 2020 in Miami Beach. Combining genuine hospitality, fine dining, and a sophisticated nightlife atmosphere, MILA has quickly become a premier destination within Miami's upscale social scene.

At RDG, we are a collective of individuals dedicated to excellence and the art of sensory engagement. We embrace the rhythms of life and are motivated by the thrill of adventure. Our core principles focus on providing customers with immersive experiences, organic design, and a refined culinary journey.

DREAM IT
MILA has exceeded expectations in its initial two years, achieving remarkable success despite pandemic-related challenges, and securing the #5 spot in The Restaurant Business Top 100 ranking. Building on this success, RDG has expanded into new concepts including AVA MediterrAegean in Winter Park, Florida, CASA NEOS on the Miami River (opened June 2024), and MM, a Membership Community. Upcoming projects include NOORA and Claudie (scheduled for fall 2024), AVA's second location in Coconut Grove (2025), and HON Japanese Steakhouse (2026).

BUILD IT
RDG's distinguished brand portfolio and exclusive membership program aim to create a network of venues and experiences that offer a unique lifestyle to guests and members in Florida. Our goal is to establish RDG as a leader in the luxury restaurant industry in the United States.

GROW IT
RDG has demonstrated rapid growth and is poised for significant economic expansion globally. We are actively exploring national markets such as New York City, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas, and international markets including Paris, London, Dubai, and Mexico City for potential expansion opportunities.

Summary:

The Beverage Director is a leadership position responsible for the strategic development, oversight, and execution of all beverage-related operations within the establishment. This individual will drive innovation, quality, and profitability across the beverage program, encompassing wines, spirits, cocktails, non-alcoholic beverages, and bar service. The Beverage Director collaborates closely with culinary leadership, procurement teams, sommeliers, mixologist, and front-of-house management to deliver an exceptional guest experience while maintaining cost controls, operational standards, and compliance with all regulatory requirements. The Beverage Director reports into the Sr. Director, Operations.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Program Development

• Develop and maintain a world-class, dynamic beverage program that aligns with the brand's vision, culinary offerings, and guest expectations.
• Curate and continuously refine comprehensive wine, cocktail, spirits, beer, and non-alcoholic beverage lists.
• Establish beverage concepts and seasonal offerings in alignment with market trends, guest demographics, and business objectives.

Operational Oversight

• Oversee day-to-day operations of all beverage outlets including bars, lounges, restaurants, in-room dining, banquets, and events.
• Collaborate with Food and Beverage Managers to ensure consistency in service, quality, and guest satisfaction.
• Monitor beverage preparation, presentation, and service to ensure adherence to brand standards.

Team Leadership & Training

• Recruit, train, and mentor bartenders, sommeliers, bar backs, and beverage servers to uphold excellence in service and product knowledge.
• Conduct regular training sessions on mixology, wine education, service etiquette, responsible service, and upselling techniques.
• Foster a positive work environment that encourages innovation, accountability, and professional growth.

Financial Management

• Manage beverage-related budgets, including forecasting, pricing, and inventory control.
• Analyze sales reports and implement strategies to drive revenue, improve margins, and control costs.
• Lead inventory management including ordering, receiving, storage, and monthly stock-taking to minimize waste and loss.

Guest Experience & Brand Representation

• Interact with guests to receive feedback, educate on beverage selections, and enhance the overall dining experience.
• Ensure the beverage program enhances the brand identity and meets the expectations of a luxury clientele.
• Host and organize promotional events such as wine tastings, mixology classes, and beverage-pairing dinners.

Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with all state and local licensing laws, health and safety regulations, and company policies.
• Maintain accurate documentation for audits, inspections, and certifications.
• Oversee staff certification in responsible beverage service programs such as TIPS or ServSafe Alcohol.

Qualifications:

• 10 years of experience in a leadership role within the hospitality industry, preferably in fine dining, hotels, or upscale events.
• Bachelor's degree in hospitality or business management.
• Deep knowledge of wines, spirits, mixology, and current beverage trends.
• Proven experience in beverage cost control, vendor negotiation, and inventory systems.
• Strong leadership and team development skills.
• Excellent communication and organizational abilities.
• Certification from a recognized wine or spirits education body (e.g., WSET, CMS, BAR) is preferred.
• Must be of legal age to serve alcoholic beverages.

Work Environment & Physical Demands:

• Must be able to work flexible hours including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to lift and move up to 50 lbs. and stand/walk for extended per

Other Skills and Knowledge:

• Superior verbal and written communications skills (Bilingual is a plus in Spanish and French)

• Must operate with a high degree of confidentiality and trust.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule inclusive of am, pm, weekends and holidays.

Environment:

We recognize that candidates come with a wealth of experience and talent beyond just the technical requirements of the role. If your experience aligns with what you see listed here, please consider joining Riviera Dining Group and applying to our career site. Diversity of experience and skills combined with a passion to serve our guests is key to innovation and inspiration. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply for our roles.