This is a hands‑on leadership position responsible for managing the daily restaurant operation while leading and developing KĀIO's wine programme.
The successful candidate will ensure impeccable service standards, drive commercial performance, inspire the front‑of‑house team, and continually enhance our guest journey through exceptional hospitality and wine expertise.
The role requires someone equally comfortable leading a busy dinner service, mentoring the team, engaging with guests, managing financial performance, and continuously developing one of London's most exciting wine programmes.
Overview of the responsibilities, but not limited to:
Operational Leadership
- Lead the restaurant floor during service ensuring seamless execution.
- Deliver exceptional guest experiences through genuine hospitality.
- Act as Manager on Duty during assigned shifts.
- Ensure all service standards and SOPs are consistently followed.
- Support the General Manager with operational strategy and decision making.
Wine Programme
- Lead all aspects of the wine programme.
- Curate, maintain and continuously evolve the wine list.
- Build strong supplier relationships and negotiate advantageous purchasing.
- Organise regular wine tastings for guests and team.
- Drive beverage revenue and restaurant profitability.
- Assist with budgeting and forecasting.
- Control purchasing and stock levels.
- Minimise wastage and analyse sales performance.
- Recruit, train and develop the FOH team.
- Conduct performance reviews.
- Build a positive and accountable culture.
- Lead by example through visible floor presence.
Guest Experience
- Build relationships with regular guests.
- Handle VIP reservations and special occasions.
- Support private dining and wine‑focused events.
Compliance
- Ensure compliance with licensing legislation.
- Maintain food safety, hygiene and Health & Safety standards.
- Ensure responsible alcohol service.
- Maintain HACCP compliance.
Skills & Experience
- Minimum 3–5 years in a Restaurant Manager and/or Head Sommelier role within premium or luxury hospitality.
- WSET Level 3 minimum (Level 4 or CMS desirable).
- Strong operational management and commercial awareness.
- Excellent leadership and communication skills.
- Fine dining or Michelin‑standard background preferred.
- Experience with SevenRooms, Toast POS or similar systems desirable.
What We Offer
- Performance‑related bonus
- Wine education and professional development
- Career progression opportunities
- Opportunity to shape one of London's most exciting premium restaurant wine programmes
At KĀIO, we believe exceptional hospitality is created by exceptional people. This is an opportunity to join a dynamic leadership team at an exciting stage of the restaurant's journey, where your expertise, creativity, and passion will directly influence our success and help establish KĀIO as one of London's leading dining destinations.
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Restaurant Manager/Head Sommelier employer: Kaio Restaurant
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