Head Sommelier - London

Head Sommelier - London Head Sommelier Location: IGNI, Mayfair, London Position: Full-Time About IGNI IGNI, located in the heart of Mayfair, is the evolution of fire-led dining. Built on years of culinary expertise, IGNI is a refined expression of cooking with fire-where flame is not simply a tool, but a language. Every element of the experience is shaped by precision, restraint and a deep respect for wood-fired cooking. At IGNI, we cook exclusively with wood-no electricity, no gas-creating a dining experience entirely driven by flame. With a focus on exceptional, globally sourced produce, particularly seafood, each ingredient is carefully selected and transformed to reveal its full depth of flavour, texture and character. Our approach is rooted in control, craftsmanship and intention. Every dish reflects a balance between nature and technique, delivering an experience that is both elevated and immersive. Our Leadership IGNI is led by Executive Chef Theo Clench and General Manager Gaelle Dubios, whose combined expertise in culinary excellence and refined hospitality shapes every aspect of the guest experience. The Opportunity We are looking for an experienced, knowledgeable and inspiring Head Sommelier to lead IGNI's wine programme and play a central role in the restaurant's continued development. IGNI is an ambitious restaurant, and we are working towards being recognised by the Michelin. We would love to welcome someone who is excited by that ambition and wants to join us in the pursuit of this shared goal. This is an opportunity for someone who wants to do more than manage a wine list. You will help shape the guest experience, build a distinctive and commercially successful wine programme, develop the team's knowledge and contribute meaningfully to the future of the restaurant. IGNI is an intimate restaurant with a small, closely connected team. Front of House and Back of House operate as one team, united by the same standards and the same desire to succeed together. We are therefore looking for a genuine people person-someone who builds strong relationships, shares knowledge generously and understands that exceptional hospitality is created through collaboration. What We're Looking For Proven Experience - Previous experience as a Head Sommelier, Assistant Head Sommelier or Senior Sommelier within a Michelin-starred, fine-dining or similarly high-end restaurant Exceptional Wine Knowledge - A strong understanding of classic and emerging wine regions, producers, vintages, food pairing and cellar management A Genuine People Person - Warm, approachable and able to build meaningful relationships with guests, colleagues, suppliers and producers Shared Ambition - Someone motivated by the opportunity to help IGNI pursue Michelin recognition and achieve its long-term goals Collaborative Mindset - A team player who believes that Front of House and Back of House should work together as one unified team Commercial Awareness - The ability to balance creativity and quality with pricing, margins, stock control and overall business performance Leadership and Development - A supportive leader who enjoys coaching others and building confidence and knowledge across the wider team Refined Hospitality - The confidence to guide guests through the wine experience in a way that is knowledgeable, personal and never intimidating Attention to Detail - A precise and organised approach to every aspect of service, purchasing and wine-list management Key Responsibilities Lead and continually develop IGNI's wine programme in line with the restaurant's identity and ambitions Curate an original, thoughtful and commercially balanced wine list that complements IGNI's fire-led menu Work closely with the Executive Chef and culinary team to create exceptional wine pairings Deliver warm, engaging and highly personalised wine service Build genuine relationships with guests, understanding their preferences and guiding them with confidence Manage wine purchasing, supplier relationships, pricing, margins, stock levels and cellar organisation Monitor wine sales and performance, identifying opportunities to strengthen the offering and support revenue growth Train and inspire the wider team, ensuring everyone feels confident discussing and recommending wine Support service on the floor and contribute wherever needed within our small, collaborative team Work closely with both Front of House and Back of House to deliver a seamless and memorable guest experience Uphold IGNI's standards while helping the restaurant evolve and progress towards its shared goals What You'll Receive Competitive salary plus shared service charge Delicious and wholesome team meals 50% discount on food and beverages across the Creative Restaurant Group portfolio A day off on your birthday Annual Christmas party Referral bonuses Wagestream access 28 days' paid holiday The opportunity to shape and lead an ambitious wine programme The chance to play a meaningful role in IGNI's pursuit of Michelin recognition A supportive culture that champions growth, creativity, collaboration and excellence Additional Information Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK without sponsorship. Our Philosophy Created to ignite, driven to evolve. At IGNI, fire transforms everything-and so do we.41bf1e1f-b16b-4260-a40a-17c77a06fd15