Chaplin's is a neighbourhood wine and cocktail bar on Lygon Street, East Brunswick. We are seeking an experienced, commercially minded and hands-on Venue Manager to lead our team and oversee the day-to-day operation of the venue.

This is a genuine leadership role for someone who enjoys being present on the floor, developing a strong team and actively helping grow a hospitality business. You will be responsible for delivering an outstanding customer experience while maintaining firm control over staffing, stock, costs and overall venue performance.

Key responsibilities

- Manage the daily operation of the venue, including opening and closing procedures

- Lead, roster, train and motivate the front-of-house and bar team

- Maintain consistently high standards of service, presentation and cleanliness

- Manage stock ordering, supplier relationships, stocktakes, wastage and cost of goods

- Monitor labour costs, weekly sales targets and overall venue profitability

- Assist in developing functions, events, promotions and themed nights

- Grow repeat business and build robust relationships with local customers

- Ensure compliance with liquor licensing, RSA, workplace safety and food-safety requirements

- Manage customer feedback and resolve issues professionally

- Provide regular performance and operational reporting to the owners

- Work key evening and weekend shifts, including Saturdays

About you

To succeed in this role, you will ideally have:





- Previous experience as a Venue Manager, Assistant Venue Manager or senior hospitality leader

- Strong bar, wine and cocktail knowledge

- Proven experience managing staff, rosters, labour costs and stock

- A practical understanding of sales targets, margins and venue profitability

- Excellent leadership, communication and problem-solving skills

- A proactive and accountable management style

- The ability to remain calm and organised during busy services

- A current Victorian RSA

- Availability to work evenings, weekends and key trading periods

We are looking for someone who will take ownership of the venue—not simply maintain it. You should be comfortable leading from the front, identifying opportunities and working closely with ownership to improve sales, service and profitability.

What we offer

- A full-time leadership position with an immediate start

- A competitive salary package based on experience

- Genuine autonomy and the opportunity to shape the venue

- Support from engaged and approachable owners

- The opportunity to grow with an evolving hospitality business

If you are an experienced hospitality professional ready to take ownership of a venue and help drive its next stage of growth, we would like to hear from you.

Please apply with your résumé and a short cover letter outlining your relevant experience and availability.

📌 Venue Manager (Brunswick East)
🏢 Chaplins
📍 Brunswick East