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- Tasks: Lead the wine program and curate a unique Australian wine list.
- Company: Milk Beach, a vibrant modern Australian restaurant in Soho.
- Benefits: Employee discounts, flexible hours, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a fun, inclusive team with exciting social events and growth potential.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team and promote Australia's finest wines in London.
- Qualifications: 2+ years in wine management and WSET Level 3 or Diploma certification.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
LOCATION: James Court, Soho, London
START DATE: Mid-May
OPPORTUNITY: A bustling modern Australian restaurant in the heart of Soho is looking for an experienced and dynamic Head Sommelier to lead its wine program and cement its place as the leading destination to experience Australian wine in London. An opportunity to work with Australia’s most iconic wineries, Wine Australia, and Tourism Australia to champion Australian wine to a UK audience. An opportunity for someone to achieve a Star Wine List award.
MILK BEACH: A leading modern Australian restaurant in London located in a spectacular venue in Soho. One of London’s favourite premium casual restaurant destinations with an 80 cover restaurant plus 10 spots at the bar and an additional 60 covers in the outdoor courtyard. Australian hospitality is professional, knowledgeable and passionate, but also engaging, friendly and fun. Seasonal a la carte lunch/dinner menu showcasing modern Australian cuisine - coastal, barbecue, with southeast Asian and Mediterranean influences.
ROLE SUMMARY: A key leadership role in the business, the Head Sommelier will have full responsibility for curating and sourcing an exciting and unique wine list for the restaurant; and will have full accountability for wine operations, wine service, team training and wine sales and GP financial results.
- Wine List: Curation of a wine list that is unique in the European restaurant scene, that showcases the outstanding quality Australian wines have to offer. Target a Star Wine List award in 2027. Foster and grow relationships with all suppliers, Australian winemakers, Wine Australia and Tourism Australia. Make Milk Beach known as the go-to destination for Australian wine in London.
- Oversee wine operations: Run the wine operations of the restaurant as their own business with full operating and financial responsibility. Ensure impeccable, knowledgeable, but approachable and fun wine service in the restaurant. Responsible for sales targets, gross profit targets, wine inventory and stock, ensuring proper storage, rotation, and ordering for optimal COGS management.
- Events: Host our ‘Toast Australia’ dinner series in which we partner with some of Australia’s most iconic winemakers and winery owners. Host trade tastings alongside Amelia Jukes and Wilem Powel.
- Training: Wine is such an important area of development for many front of house team members. Team training and mentorship is a vital and important responsibility for this role.
- Build reputation: Build and maintain strong relationships with winemakers, suppliers, and distributors; both locally and globally, to secure exclusive and high-quality offerings.
WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR:
- Industry experience: 2+ years as a wine manager or supervisor and/or Head Sommelier. WSET Level 3 or Diploma certification, or equivalent knowledge. Previous restaurant management experience is also valued, but not required.
- Service oriented: High energy, social and engaging personality, to bring a bit of fun to the wine experience for our guests. A natural ability to build rapport with both guests and staff, providing exceptional guest experience and engaging training.
- Business acumen: Strong business acumen with a high attention to detail to manage budgets, sales, and inventory.
- Australian connection: Someone with a good understanding of Australian culture and hospitality and a genuine interest in and knowledge of Australian wine and understanding of its unique regional characteristics.
- Passion for L&D and Hospitality: We are seeking someone who is passionate about nurturing curiosity and pushing team members to learn and develop in their own wine journeys. Someone who loves dining out and who is plugged in to the London restaurant and wine scene and trends.
What we Offer / Benefits:
- Experienced management team who have been in positions for 2+ years including Head Chef, AGM, Restaurant Manager, Head of People.
- Career development and external educational development including management training.
- Personalised recognition schemes.
- Friendly and motivating team environment with an inclusive and diverse workforce.
- Flexibility and work/life balance.
- Perks including 25-50% employee discounts at all group restaurants, cost price wine, meals, softs, coffees, and teas while on shift, cycle to work scheme, team social events including comedy nights, bowling, darts and more.
CONTACT: Please send cover letter and CV to Nadia Jennings, Head of People (nadia@milkbeach.com)
Head Sommelier in London employer: Milk Beach, Soho
Contact Detail:
Milk Beach, Soho Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Sommelier in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend wine events, tastings, and industry meet-ups to connect with fellow sommeliers and winemakers. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for Australian wine! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your knowledge and enthusiasm about the wines you love. It’s all about making that personal connection.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just wait for job openings—create your own opportunities! Reach out directly to restaurants you admire, like Milk Beach, and express your interest in working with them. A proactive approach can really set you apart.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep honing your skills! Consider taking additional courses or certifications related to wine. This not only boosts your CV but also shows your commitment to continuous learning, which is super attractive to employers.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Sommelier in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Wine: When writing your application, let your love for wine shine through! Share your experiences with Australian wines and how they inspire you. We want to see that you're not just knowledgeable but genuinely excited about the role.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your relevant experience as a Head Sommelier or wine manager. Focus on your achievements in curating wine lists and training teams. We appreciate a clear and concise format that showcases your skills!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you're the perfect fit for Milk Beach. Be engaging and personable, and don’t forget to mention any connections you have to Australian culture or wine. We love a bit of personality!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Milk Beach, Soho
✨Know Your Wines
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Australian wines, especially the ones that will be featured at Milk Beach. Familiarise yourself with the unique characteristics of different regions and wineries, as well as any recent trends in the wine scene. This will not only impress your interviewers but also show your genuine passion for the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head Sommelier, you'll be leading a team and curating a unique wine list. Be prepared to discuss your previous experiences in managing teams and how you've successfully trained staff in the past. Share specific examples of how you've fostered relationships with suppliers or winemakers, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Engage with Your Personality
The job calls for someone with a high-energy, social, and engaging personality. During the interview, let your enthusiasm shine through! Share stories that highlight your ability to connect with guests and create a fun atmosphere around wine service. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can bring a bit of fun to the experience.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come armed with thoughtful questions about the restaurant's vision for its wine program and how they plan to achieve that Star Wine List award. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if the restaurant aligns with your own values and goals.