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- Tasks: Lead an exceptional beverage programme, curating wine and sake pairings with Japanese cuisine.
- Company: Exciting new restaurant opening in Mayfair, blending Japanese philosophy with fine dining.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, service charge, professional development, and wellness initiatives.
- Why this job: Shape a unique beverage experience and collaborate with world-class chefs in a creative environment.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Sommelier or Senior Sommelier, with knowledge of wine and sake.
- Other info: Join a passionate team and help create memorable dining experiences.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: 30 Upper Grosvenor Street, Mayfair
About MA/NA
Opening in January 2026 on Upper Grosvenor Street, MA/NA is born from the Japanese philosophy that every ingredient carries an invisible power - a life-force shaped by nature and the hands that honour it. 'Mana' is the spiritual energy that exists beneath the surface of all things. It is felt rather than seen - transforming emotion into experience, and a meal into memory. Guided by this belief, MA/NA offers a seamless blend of restaurant and bar - refined Japanese dishes alongside an exceptional cocktail, wine and sake list. Here, cocktails flow effortlessly into dinner, and dinner naturally returns to drinks. Every element - from design and service to sound and light - is intentional. Each detail celebrates the extraordinary within the simple.
The Role - Head Sommelier
As Head Sommelier at MA/NA, you will curate and lead an exceptional beverage programme that celebrates the harmony between wine, sake, and Japanese cuisine. You will be responsible for developing and maintaining a world-class cellar - one that reflects refinement, discovery, and respect for craftsmanship. You'll guide guests and team members alike through a journey of flavour and philosophy, connecting them to the story and energy behind each bottle. Working closely with the kitchen and bar teams, you'll ensure perfect synergy between dishes, cocktails, and pairings, elevating every moment of the guest experience. This is a leadership role suited to a Sommelier who embodies curiosity, precision, and emotional intelligence - someone who understands that the right pairing can transform a meal into memory.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee all aspects of the wine and sake programme, from sourcing and selection to service and education
- Curate an innovative, balanced list featuring both iconic producers and artisanal discoveries
- Develop a premium sake offering and lead guest education around Japanese beverages
- Collaborate closely with the Executive Chef and Head of Wine & Sake to craft harmonious food and drink pairings
- Train and mentor the sommelier and front-of-house teams to deliver expert yet intuitive service
- Manage cellar stock, cost controls, and supplier relationships
- Represent MA/NA at industry tastings, events, and collaborations
What We're Looking For
- Proven experience as a Head Sommelier or Senior Sommelier in a fine dining or high-end environment
- Deep understanding of international wine regions, producers, and styles
- Strong knowledge of sake, ideally with WSET Sake Level 3 or equivalent certification
- A refined palate and passion for Japanese cuisine and beverage culture
- Exceptional guest communication and storytelling ability
- Strong organisational skills and a calm, confident approach to leadership
- A desire to help shape one of London's most exciting new openings
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and service charge package
- Opportunity to lead the wine and sake programme for a flagship opening within the Thesleff Group
- Collaboration with world-class chefs and bar professionals
- Continued training, tasting, and professional development
- Staff meals, wellness initiatives, and a supportive, creative working environment
Join the MA/NA Opening Team
If you are guided by balance, curiosity, and craft - and want to shape a beverage experience where emotion meets precision - we'd love to hear from you.
Head Sommelier - New Opening - MANA in London employer: Ma/Na
Contact Detail:
Ma/Na Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Sommelier - New Opening - MANA in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, tastings, and workshops to meet fellow sommeliers and chefs. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your love for wine and sake. Talk about your experiences and how you can elevate their beverage programme.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up. Reach out directly to restaurants or bars you admire and express your interest in being part of their team. You never know what might come up!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’re always on the lookout for passionate individuals who want to join us at MA/NA. Your next big opportunity could be just a click away!
We think you need these skills to ace Head Sommelier - New Opening - MANA in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your love for wine, sake, and Japanese cuisine shine through. We want to see how your experiences and interests align with the philosophy of MA/NA, so don’t hold back!
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the key responsibilities and skills mentioned in the job description. Highlight your experience in fine dining and any leadership roles you've had, as we’re looking for someone who can guide our team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us your story. Share your journey in the world of wine and sake, and explain why you’re excited about the opportunity to shape the beverage programme at MA/NA.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting new opening. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ma/Na
✨Know Your Wines and Sakes
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of international wine regions and sake varieties. Be prepared to discuss your favourite producers and why they resonate with you. This will show your passion and expertise, which is crucial for a Head Sommelier role.
✨Understand the Philosophy
Familiarise yourself with the Japanese philosophy behind MA/NA. Reflect on how the concept of 'Mana' influences the dining experience. Being able to articulate this connection during your interview will demonstrate your alignment with the restaurant's vision.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully trained and mentored teams in the past. Highlight your approach to collaboration with kitchen staff and how you ensure perfect pairings. This will illustrate your capability to lead and inspire others.
✨Engage with Storytelling
Practice how you would narrate the story behind specific wines or sakes. Guests love a good story, and being able to connect them emotionally to what they're drinking can set you apart. Think about how you can weave storytelling into your responses.
