Head Barista

About the role

Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, a 5-star Abu Dhabi beach resort, is looking for a Head Barista to lead all coffee operations across its café, lobby lounge, specialty coffee outlet and other designated venues. The role ensures beverage quality, service excellence and team performance while maintaining the highest luxury hospitality standards.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of all coffee service areas and ensure specialty coffee, tea and other beverages meet brand standards.
• Maintain beverage quality, calibrate espresso machines and grinders, and run daily quality checks on beans, milk, syrups and other ingredients.
• Develop and maintain standard recipes and operating procedures, and support seasonal promotions and specialty coffee programs.
• Lead, brief and motivate the barista team, recruit, train and mentor staff, and monitor performance with regular feedback.
• Deliver personalized service to guests and VIPs, handle feedback and promote coffee culture.
• Monitor stock levels, conduct inventory counts, minimize waste and control beverage costs.
• Maintain equipment, coordinate preventive maintenance, and train team members on operation and cleaning.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and HACCP standards, keep areas clean and safe, and maintain operational and hygiene records.

Required profile

• Minimum 3-5 years of experience as a barista in a luxury hotel, premium café or specialty coffee environment.
• At least 2 years of supervisory or leadership experience managing barista teams.
• Luxury hospitality experience is highly preferred.

Required skills

• Experience with specialty coffee programs and espresso-based beverages.
• Knowledge of alternative brewing methods.