Head Sommelier

Job description

About the Role

We are recruiting a Head Sommelier on behalf of our client, a highly regarded restaurant in London, to lead their wine programme and elevate the guest experience. This is a fantastic opportunity for a driven wine professional to take ownership of a cellar, build a world-class wine list, and mentor a team of sommeliers within a prestigious dining environment.

Responsibilities

• Curate, develop, and continually evolve the wine list to reflect our client's concept, cuisine, and guest expectations
• Manage the wine cellar, including procurement, stock control, storage conditions, and supplier relationships
• Lead, train, and mentor the sommelier and front-of-house wine service team
• Deliver exceptional tableside service, including wine recommendations and food pairings
• Host wine tastings and staff training sessions to build team knowledge and confidence
• Monitor wine costs, margins, and inventory to support commercial targets
• Build and maintain relationships with growers, importers, and distributors
• Stay current on wine trends, regions, and emerging producers
• Ensure compliance with licensing, health & safety, and stock management standards

Qualifications

• Right to work in the UK

Required Skills

• Proven experience as a Head Sommelier or Senior/Assistant Head Sommelier in a high-end restaurant
• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Excellent palate, wine knowledge, and confident guest-facing communication
• Commercial acumen — comfortable managing budgets, margins, and supplier negotiations
• A genuine passion for hospitality and creating memorable guest experiences

Preferred Skills

• WSET Level 3 (or higher) or Court of Master Sommeliers qualification preferred

Pay range and compensation package

• Competitive salary (dependent on experience)
• Staff meals and generous dining discounts
• Ongoing training and professional development (WSET support, supplier trips, tastings)
• Career progression within an acclaimed restaurant
• Pension scheme, health benefits, and wellbeing support

Equal Opportunity Statement

Our client is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds and experiences.

Extra information

Status

Open

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

London Area

Type of Contract

Full-time jobs

Published at

18-09-2026

Profession type

Bar Staff / Waiters and Waitresses

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English