At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the wine program and curate a unique Australian wine list for a vibrant restaurant.
- Company: A modern Australian restaurant in the heart of Soho, London.
- Benefits: Career development, flexible hours, employee discounts, and fun team events.
- Other info: Join a friendly, diverse team with excellent growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team and champion Australian wine culture in London.
- Qualifications: 2+ years in wine management and a passion for Australian wines.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Location: James Court, Soho, London
Start Date: Mid-May
Opportunity: A bustling modern Australian restaurant in the heart of Soho is looking for an experienced and dynamic Wine Manager to lead its wine program and cement its place as the leading destination to experience Australian wine in London. The role offers the chance to work with Australia's most iconic wineries, Wine Australia, and Tourism Australia to champion Australian wine to a UK audience and pursue a Star Wine List award.
About Milk Beach: A leading modern Australian restaurant in London located in a spectacular venue in Soho. One of London's favourite premium casual restaurant destinations with an 80 cover restaurant plus 10 spots at the bar and an additional 60 covers in the outdoor courtyard. Australian hospitality is professional, knowledgeable and passionate, but also engaging, friendly and fun. Seasonal a la carte lunch/dinner menu showcasing modern Australian cuisine - coastal, barbecue, with Southeast Asian and Mediterranean influences.
Role Summary: A key leadership role in the business, the Wine Manager will have full responsibility for curating and sourcing an exciting and unique wine list for the restaurant; and will have full accountability for wine operations, wine service, team training and wine sales and GP financial results.
Responsibilities:
- Wine List: Curation of a wine list unique in the European restaurant scene and showcasing the outstanding quality Australian wines. Target a Star Wine List award in 2027. Foster and grow relationships with all suppliers, Australian winemakers, Wine Australia and Tourism Australia. Make Milk Beach known as the go-to destination for Australian wine in London.
- Oversee wine operations: Run the wine operations of the restaurant as their own business with full operating and financial responsibility. Ensure impeccable, knowledgeable, approachable and fun wine service in the restaurant. Responsible for sales targets, gross profit targets, wine inventory and stock, ensuring proper storage, rotation, and ordering for optimal COGS management.
- Events: Host the 'Toast Australia' dinner series in partnership with iconic Australian winemakers and winery owners. Host trade tastings alongside Amelia Jukes and Wilem Powel.
- Training: Team training and mentorship to develop front of house staff in wine knowledge.
- Build reputation: Build and maintain strong relationships with winemakers, suppliers, and distributors locally and globally to secure exclusive high-quality offerings.
Qualifications:
- Industry experience: 2+ years as a Wine Manager, Supervisor or Head Sommelier. WSET Level 3 or Diploma certification, or equivalent knowledge. Previous restaurant management experience valued, but not required.
- Service oriented: Social, energetic and engaging personality to bring fun to the wine experience. Natural ability to build rapport with guests and staff, providing exceptional guest experience and engaging training.
- Business acumen: Strong business acumen with high attention to detail to manage budgets, sales and inventory.
- Australian connection: Good understanding of Australian culture and hospitality and genuine interest in Australian wine and its regional characteristics.
- Passion for Learning & Development and Hospitality: Passionate about nurturing curiosity and pushing team members to learn and develop in their own wine journeys. Love dining out and plugged into the London restaurant and wine scene and trends.
Benefits:
- Experienced management team with senior leaders in key roles.
- Career development and external educational development including management training.
- Personalised recognition schemes.
- Friendly and motivating team environment with an inclusive and diverse workforce.
- Flexibility and work/life balance.
- % employee discounts at all group restaurants.
- Cost price wine.
- Meals, softs, coffees and teas while on shift.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Team social events including comedy nights, bowling, darts and more.
Wine Manager employer: Job Search Place Limited
Milk Beach is an exceptional employer located in the vibrant heart of Soho, London, offering a dynamic work environment where passion for Australian wine and hospitality thrives. With a focus on employee growth through tailored training programmes and a supportive management team, staff enjoy a friendly and inclusive culture that celebrates diversity. The opportunity to curate a unique wine list and engage with iconic Australian wineries makes this role not just a job, but a meaningful career path in the exciting London restaurant scene.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Wine Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the restaurant's vibe! Before your interview, pop by Milk Beach and soak in the atmosphere. Chat with the staff if you can; it’ll give you a feel for their culture and help you tailor your approach.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for Australian wine! Prepare to discuss your favourite Aussie wines and how they could fit into Milk Beach’s unique wine list. This will demonstrate your genuine interest and expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts or even suppliers you’ve worked with before. A good word from someone in the know can make all the difference in landing that role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Wine Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Wine:When writing your application, let your love for wine shine through! Share your experiences with Australian wines and how they inspire you. We want to see that you're not just knowledgeable but genuinely excited about the world of wine.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for this role. Highlight your relevant experience as a Wine Manager or in similar positions. We’re looking for someone who can curate an exciting wine list, so showcase any past successes in this area!
Be Authentic and Engaging:We value personality just as much as qualifications! Use a friendly tone in your application to reflect the engaging atmosphere we foster at Milk Beach. Show us your social side and how you connect with guests and team members alike.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Know Your Wines
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Australian wines, including key regions, varietals, and producers. Being able to discuss specific wines and their characteristics will show your passion and expertise, which is crucial for the Wine Manager role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a team in the past, especially in training and mentoring staff. Highlighting your ability to foster a fun and engaging wine service will resonate well with the restaurant's culture.
✨Understand the Business Side
Familiarise yourself with key financial metrics related to wine sales and inventory management. Be ready to discuss how you would manage budgets and achieve sales targets, as this role requires strong business acumen.
✨Connect with Their Vision
Research Milk Beach and its mission to become the go-to destination for Australian wine in London. Be prepared to share your ideas on how you can contribute to achieving a Star Wine List award and enhancing their wine program.
