Wine Manager

A bustling modern Australian restaurant in the heart of Soho is looking for an experienced and dynamic Wine Manager to lead its wine program and cement its place as the leading destination to experience Australian wine in London. The role offers the chance to work with Australia’s most iconic wineries, Wine Australia, and Tourism Australia to champion Australian wine to a UK audience and pursue a Star Wine List award.

About 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
• 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 Wine Manager 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.

Responsibilities:

• Wine List: Curation of a wine list unique in the European restaurant scene and showcasing the outstanding quality Australian wines. 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, 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 the ‘Toast Australia’ dinner series in partnership with iconic Australian winemakers and winery owners. Host trade tastings alongside Amelia Jukes and Wilem Powel.
• Training: Team training and mentorship to develop front of house staff in wine knowledge.
• Build reputation: Build and maintain strong relationships with winemakers, suppliers, and distributors locally and globally to secure exclusive high-quality offerings.

Qualifications:

• Industry experience: 2+ years as a Wine Manager, Supervisor or Head Sommelier. WSET Level 3 or Diploma certification, or equivalent knowledge. Previous restaurant management experience valued, but not required.
• Service oriented: Social, energetic and engaging personality to bring fun to the wine experience. Natural ability to build rapport with guests and staff, providing exceptional guest experience and engaging training.
• Business acumen: Strong business acumen with high attention to detail to manage budgets, sales and inventory.
• Australian connection: Good understanding of Australian culture and hospitality and genuine interest in Australian wine and its regional characteristics.
• Passion for Learning & Development and Hospitality: Passionate about nurturing curiosity and pushing team members to learn and develop in their own wine journeys. Love dining out and plugged into the London restaurant and wine scene and trends.

Benefits:

• Experienced management team with senior leaders in key roles.
• 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.
• 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.