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- Tasks: Support the creation of an exceptional beverage programme and guide guests through flavour journeys.
- Company: Exciting new restaurant opening in Mayfair, blending Japanese cuisine with a world-class beverage experience.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, staff meals, and a creative working environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a flagship opening and collaborate with top chefs and beverage professionals.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Sommelier, knowledge of wine and sake, and a passion for Japanese culture.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for leadership and continuous learning.
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 - Assistant Head Sommelier
As Assistant Head Sommelier at MA/NA, you will support the creation and execution of an exceptional beverage programme that celebrates the harmony between wine, sake, and Japanese cuisine. Working closely with the Head Sommelier, you will help develop and maintain a world-class cellar - one that reflects refinement, discovery, and respect for craftsmanship. You'll guide guests and team members through a journey of flavour and philosophy, connecting them to the story and energy behind each bottle. Collaborating across the kitchen and bar teams, you'll help ensure perfect synergy between dishes, cocktails, and pairings, elevating every aspect of the guest experience. This is a dynamic, hands-on role suited to a Sommelier who embodies curiosity, precision, and emotional intelligence - someone who strives to learn, lead, and grow within a world-class opening.
Key Responsibilities
- Support all aspects of the wine and sake programme, from sourcing and selection to service and team education
- Assist in curating an innovative, balanced list featuring both iconic producers and artisanal discoveries
- Contribute to the development of a premium sake offering and guest education around Japanese beverages
- Collaborate closely with the Executive Chef, Head Sommelier, and Head of Wine & Sake to craft harmonious food and drink pairings
- Help train and mentor the sommelier and front-of-house teams to deliver expert yet intuitive service
- Support cellar management, stock control, and supplier relationships
- Represent MA/NA at industry tastings, events, and collaborations
- Step into leadership responsibilities in the absence of the Head Sommelier
What We're Looking For
- Proven experience as a Sommelier or Senior Sommelier in a fine dining or high-end environment
- Strong understanding of international wine regions, producers, and styles
- Knowledge of sake, ideally with WSET Sake Level 3 or a desire to achieve certification
- A refined palate and passion for Japanese cuisine and beverage culture
- Excellent guest communication and storytelling ability
- Organised, motivated, and collaborative approach to service and leadership
- A calm, professional presence and commitment to continuous learning
- A desire to help shape one of London’s most exciting new openings
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and service charge package
- Opportunity to play a key role in the beverage 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 grow within a team that transforms emotion into experience — we’d love to hear from you.
Assistant Head Sommelier in Stoke-on-Trent employer: MaNa Mayfair
Contact Detail:
MaNa Mayfair Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Head Sommelier in Stoke-on-Trent
✨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 your passion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your love for wine and sake. Talk about your experiences and what excites you about Japanese cuisine — it’ll make you memorable!
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up. Reach out directly to restaurants or bars you admire, like MA/NA, and express your interest in being part of their team. You never know what might come from it!
✨Tip Number 4
Keep learning! Stay updated on wine trends and sake knowledge. Consider getting certifications like WSET Sake Level 3 if you haven’t already. It shows commitment and can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Head Sommelier in Stoke-on-Trent
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 your enthusiasm and how it connects to the role of Assistant Head Sommelier at MA/NA.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in fine dining or high-end environments. We’re looking for someone who understands the nuances of wine and sake, so be specific about your past roles and achievements.
Be Authentic: Don’t be afraid to share your personal story and what drives you in this industry. We value emotional intelligence and storytelling, so let us know how you connect with guests and create memorable experiences.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you 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 exciting opportunity at MA/NA!
How to prepare for a job interview at MaNa Mayfair
✨Know Your Wines and Sakes
Brush up on your knowledge of international wine regions and sake varieties. Be prepared to discuss specific producers and styles, as well as how they pair with Japanese cuisine. This will show your passion and expertise, which is crucial for the role.
✨Showcase Your Storytelling Skills
As a Sommelier, you’ll need to connect guests with the stories behind each bottle. Practice articulating the journey of a few key wines or sakes, focusing on their origins and unique characteristics. This will demonstrate your ability to engage and educate guests.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Highlight your experience working closely with kitchen and bar teams. Discuss how you’ve contributed to creating harmonious food and drink pairings in the past. This will show that you understand the importance of teamwork in delivering an exceptional guest experience.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview about MA/NA’s beverage programme and their vision for the opening. This not only shows your genuine interest but also gives you a chance to assess if the role aligns with your career goals.