At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver exceptional guest experiences through expert wine knowledge and warm hospitality.
- Company: Join La Compagnie Neal's Yard, part of a vibrant group in London.
- Benefits: Enjoy staff discounts, training opportunities, and a pension scheme.
- Other info: Opportunities for career growth and international mobility within our venues.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team and enhance your wine expertise while engaging with guests.
- Qualifications: Certified Sommelier with experience in a similar role and excellent communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
Located in the heart of Neal’s Yard, La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels is specialised in sourcing interesting wines that make up 450 references.
Role Overview:
Responsible for delivering an exceptional guest experience through expert wine knowledge, warm hospitality, and excellent service standards. You will guide guests through the wine list, recommend pairings, and support the front of house team in maintaining high operational and service standards.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Wine Knowledge & Standards
- Maintain excellent knowledge of all wines on the list
- Ensure service delivery aligns with Experimental Group standards and venue DNA
- Apply all food and beverage safety and quality regulations
- Guest Experience & Service
- Be present throughout service, ensuring smooth running of operations
- Greet and engage with guests in a warm and professional manner
- Create a welcoming environment and assess guest needs
- Present and explain the wine list, with strong knowledge of all wines and pricing
- Advise guests on wine choices based on taste preferences, food selections, and budget
- Recommend food and wine pairings
- Take wine orders, present bottles with appropriate glassware, and pour for guest tasting
- Deliver bills and process guest payments
- Train and support front of house staff on wine knowledge and upselling, in collaboration with the General Manager
- Presentation
- Supervise set-up of bar and floor areas, ensuring excellent presentation standards
- Set up tables and maintain overall presentation of the wine bar
- Cellar & Equipment Management
- Maintain a clean, tidy, and organised cellar with correct storage temperatures
- Ensure wine glasses and equipment are handled, cleaned, and stored safely and correctly
ABOUT YOU
- Certified Sommelier (WSET or equivalent).
- Experience in a similar role within a comparable venue.
- Have a knowledge of wine business management principles and practices.
- Excellent organisational and leadership skills.
- Be well spoken with excellent communication skills.
- Attention to details and customer needs.
- Social, engaging, and motivated.
- Flexibility to respond quickly and positively to a range of work situations.
- Proof of eligibility to work in the UK.
WHAT IT IS LIKE TO WORK FOR US?
Whether you’re looking for an entry-level employment or a new opportunity to evolve, we make a point to recruit, develop, and retain the most motivated and talented people from all backgrounds and skills. Here is what we can offer:
- On the job and personalised training to develop the technical and managerial skills necessary to develop a clear career path: weekly masterclass, internal training and training with brands, incentive…
- Possibility of inner company mobility within our foreign venues such as Italy, France, Spain or Switzerland.
- Staff discounts and benefits.
- Pension scheme.
Sommelier in London employer: La Compagnie, Neal's Yard
La Compagnie Neal's Yard is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture in the heart of Seven Dials, London. With a focus on employee growth and development, team members enjoy opportunities to enhance their culinary skills while working with a diverse range of interesting wines. The company fosters a collaborative environment that values creativity and passion, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in the hospitality industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sommelier in London
✨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 La Compagnie, Neal's Yard. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to La Compagnie, Neal's Yard
Don't be shy about reaching out to La Compagnie, Neal's Yard 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 Sommelier in London
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 La Compagnie, Neal's Yard 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 La Compagnie, Neal's Yard
✨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!
