In this role, you will be responsible for leading and executing operational excellence by providing exceptional customer service, offering expert advice on premium cigar products and spirits. Additionally, the Tobacconist oversees inventory and ordering of cigars, retail accessories, and spirits.
The ideal candidate has in-depth knowledge of tobacco products (cigars, pipe tobacco, and accessories) as well as a strong understanding of liquor varieties, pairings, and recommendations. Positively interacts with members and guests, coaches team members on how to deliver consistently strong experiences.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide expert advice on cigars, pipe tobacco, and accessories, including cutters, humidors, and lighters.
- Offer in-depth knowledge of various liquors, including whiskey, rum, vodka, gin, wine, and craft beer.
- Educate customers on proper storage, handling, and consumption techniques for both tobacco and liquor.
- Stay updated on industry trends, new product launches, and regulations related to tobacco and liquor sales.
- Host tastings or pairing events for customers to showcase premium tobacco and liquor products.
- Ensure acquisition and maintenance of a well-staffed top-quality team within the club by supporting recruitment of top-quality candidates.
- Develop team members by providing ongoing training and feedback, establishing performance expectations and fostering engagement.
- Ensure team members follow systems, methods, and processes for safety, security, sanitation, and quality.
- Ensure current inventory is assessed, orders are placed, and that shipments of incoming products are done on time and according to procedure.
- Ensure appealing displays and inventory management, including reordering stock as needed.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and inviting environment, ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.
- Handle cash transactions, process payments, and manage the point-of-sale system efficiently.
- Conduct regular financial reporting and analysis, monitor trends and preferences, and communicate areas of performance needing improvement to meet business plan objectives.
- Conduct a variety of administrative duties in support of a successful operation, and in compliance with local, state, and federal laws.
- Ensure compliance with regulations including food and alcohol safety.
Qualifications:
- A college degree is preferred. Bachelor's degree in hotel/restaurant management is desirable. A combination of practical experience and education will be considered as an alternative.
- Minimum of 1 year of management or supervisory experience in restaurant, or bar experience.
- Minimum of 2 years of experience as a tobacconist, bartender, sommelier, or in a related service environment.
- Knowledge of computers (MS Outlook, Teams, Excel, Word) and POS Systems.
- Must be eligible to work in the United States.
Knowledge:
- Extensive understanding of cigars, pipe tobacco, and liquor varieties. Knowledge of pairings is a plus.
- Communication Skills: Excellent verbal communication skills and the ability to engage members and guests.
- Guest Service: Friendly, approachable, and able to offer exceptional customer service.
- Attention to Detail: Ability to manage stock, maintain organized displays, and keep up with inventory demands.
Preferred Skills:
- Certification in tobacco or liquor expertise (e.g., Cigar Sommelier, Bartending License, or similar).
- Ability to host events or educate customers on premium product selections.
- Strong sales skills with a customer-first approach.
Personal Requirements:
- Self-discipline, initiative, leadership ability and outgoing.
- Pleasant, polite manner and a neat and clean appearance.
- Ability to motivate employees to work as a team to ensure that service meets appropriate standards.
- Must be able to handle the pressures of simultaneously coordinating a wide range of activities and recommend appropriate solutions to problems.
- Must possess good communication skills for dealing with diverse staff.
- Ability to coordinate multiple tasks such as food, beverage and labor cost while maintaining required standards of operation in daily activities.
- Ability to determine applicability of experience and qualifications of job applicants.
- Commitment to honesty and integrity
Work Environment:
- Cigar Lounge specializing in high-end tobacco and liquor products.
- Interaction with both seasoned connoisseurs and new customers.
- Hours may vary if manager must fill in for their employees or in cases of emergencies.
- Ability to perform all functions within the lounge.
- Position requires prolonged standing, bending, stooping, twisting, lifting products and supplies weighing 45 pounds, and repetitive hand and wrist motion.
- Work with hot, cold, and hazardous equipment as well as operate phones, computers, scanners, copiers, and other office equipment.
- Compliance with regulations including food and alcohol safety.
- Ensure a safe working and guest environment to reduce the risk of injury and accidents.
Legal Requirements:
Must meet the minimum age requirement for the sale of tobacco and alcohol.