At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the wine programme and elevate guest experiences in a prestigious restaurant.
- Company: Highly regarded London restaurant with a focus on exceptional dining.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, staff meals, generous discounts, and ongoing training.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to inclusivity and professional growth.
- Why this job: Take ownership of a world-class wine list and mentor a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Proven experience as a Head Sommelier or similar role in high-end dining.
The predicted salary is between 39600 - 48400 £ per year.
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.
Head Sommelier in Slough employer: Kinora Group
Join one of the UK's fastest-growing foodtech companies as a Financial Director, where you'll have the unique opportunity to build the finance function from the ground up. With a competitive salary, share scheme, and excellent perks, you'll work closely with the CEO and Board, influencing key decisions and driving the company's expansion into the US market. Our dynamic work culture fosters innovation and offers clear progression opportunities, making it an ideal environment for those looking to make a meaningful impact in a rapidly evolving industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Sommelier in Slough
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Kinora Group. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Kinora Group
Don't be shy about reaching out to Kinora Group directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Head Sommelier in Slough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Kinora Group and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kinora Group
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
