STEVE BIKO
DUBAI,UAE
Summary
Accomplished professional with a strong knowledge of spirits, wines, beers, classic cocktails, and modern mixology techniques. Demonstrates excellent communication and collaboration skills, effectively supporting marketing initiatives and promotional events. Proven ability to manage departmental expenses to meet or exceed budget expectations while maintaining high standards of time-management, punctuality, and mise-en-place organization. Thrives in fast-paced, high-pressure environments with a calm and composed demeanor.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
8068
8068
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Bar Manager
Rare Steak House
02.2024 - 11.2025
- Establish a streamlined daily bar operation, including inventory management, staff scheduling, and guest service, improving operational efficiency by 20%
- Perform quality control checks across beverages and bar offerings, ensuring consistent high standards and increasing customer satisfaction scores by 15%
- Increased revenue through targeted promotions and upselling techniques while maintaining a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere
- Manage bar financials, including budgeting, reporting, and cash handling, reducing expenses by 10% through cost-control measures.
Bar Assistant Manager
Ce La Vi Dubai
01.2022 - 02.2024
- Managed beverage controls including par levels, cost control, inventory, and sales analysis, optimizing operations and reducing waste
- Supported menu development and crafted innovative concept cocktails, enhancing guest experience and increasing drink sales
- Delivered exceptional guest service by efficiently handling requests and resolving complaints
- Trained staff on licensing, service standards, and beverage procedures, ensuring compliance and high team performance
- Motivated and empowered team members, elevating service quality and overall performance
Bar Supervisor
Ce La Vi Dubai
12.2019 - 01.2022
- Maintained bar ambience, cleanliness, and setup in line with brand standards, ensuring a welcoming environment for guests
- Supported menu changes and recipe development, contributing to innovative beverage offerings
- Promoted teamwork and professional development within the bar team, enhancing collaboration and staff skills
Senior Bartender
Mix by Alain Ducasse
01.2018 - 09.2018
- Performed beverage requisitions and ensured smooth service flow.
- Prepared and presented crafted cocktails, offering tailored recommendations.
Bartender
Rockfish, Madinat Jumeirah
11.2016 - 01.2018
- Prepared crafted signature and classic cocktails.
- Led beverage promotions and conducted staff training.
- Maintained HACCP standards, bar records, and product labeling.
- Handled guest billing, open tabs, and payment processing.
Bar Server / Bar Back
Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
01.2013 - 01.2016
- Delivered friendly and professional guest service, including menu recommendations to enhance the experience
- Promoted loyalty program enrollment, supporting guest engagement and satisfaction
- Maintained organized mise-en-place to ensure efficient service flow
- Received, organized, and arranged bar stock and supplies, supporting smooth daily operations
Education
Diploma - Bartending
European Bartender School Phuket
Pass - Wine
WSET Level 1
DubaiPass - Wine
WSET Level 2
DubaiDiploma - Customer Service
Kenya Utalii College
Skills
- WSET Level 1 & Level 2 in Wines
- Strong knowledge of spirits, wines, beers, classic cocktails, and modern/molecular mixology
- Pre-prohibition and prohibition-era cocktails
- Drink mixing techniques and service procedures
- Ice carving and dehydrating garnishes
- Use of antique and modern bar tools; pre-batching cocktails, infusions, and garnish preparation
- Responsible alcohol service: serving laws, permissions, and supervision
- Excellent communication and collaboration; supporting marketing initiatives and promotional events
- Experience managing departmental expenses to meet or exceed budget expectations
- Accuracy, precision, stress management, time-management, punctuality, and mise-en-place organization
- Calm, composed, and effective in fast-paced, high-pressure environments
Accomplishments
- Developed a gin-pairing experience that increased revenue and received strong guest feedback.
- Named among the Top 50 Most Influential Bartenders (Caterer Middle East Power List 2023).
- Contributed to Ce La Vi Dubai winning Best Rooftop Sky Bar – WhatsOn Nightlife Awards 2023.
Timeline
Bar Manager
Rare Steak House
02.2024 - 11.2025
Bar Assistant Manager
Ce La Vi Dubai
01.2022 - 02.2024
Bar Supervisor
Ce La Vi Dubai
12.2019 - 01.2022
Senior Bartender
Mix by Alain Ducasse
01.2018 - 09.2018
Bartender
Rockfish, Madinat Jumeirah
11.2016 - 01.2018
Bar Server / Bar Back
Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
01.2013 - 01.2016
Diploma - Bartending
European Bartender School Phuket
Pass - Wine
WSET Level 1
Pass - Wine
WSET Level 2
Diploma - Customer Service
Kenya Utalii College