At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver exceptional cigar and bar service, providing personalised recommendations to members and guests.
- Company: The Pembroke, a unique club in the heart of Belgravia, offering eclectic experiences.
- Benefits: Best-in-class salary, family meals, learning opportunities, and a pension scheme.
- Other info: Dynamic late-night venue with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Join a vibrant team and elevate the cigar culture in a luxury hospitality environment.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Cigar Sommelier or in a senior cigar service role required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Steeped in history and situated in the heart of Belgravia, The Pembroke stands apart as a unique club for Londoners. From the spirit of our members to the splendour of our events, we are a home for eclectic and excellent living. A place to eat, drink, dance and meet, The Pembroke opens its doors to those who wish to fill their world with the finest experiences, from cocktails to culture, billiards to business. Our fifth floor Whisky Bar, serving cocktails and a small selection of bar snacks, will be open late afternoon until late night. Stretching across two rooms, the space also includes 'The Nest', an exclusive area for our Committee and Life Members.
ROLE OVERVIEW
To further elevate and enhance our operations, we are seeking an accomplished Cigar Sommelier to contribute and deliver on the club’s success, providing exceptional experiences for our members. The Cigar Sommelier will play a key role in the delivery of the club’s cigar service, supporting the Bars Manager and Assistant Bars Manager in the day-to-day execution of the cigar and bar programme. This role requires a strong foundation of cigar and bar knowledge, an instinct for personalised service and a genuine passion for hospitality. The Cigar Sommelier will be responsible for providing expert guidance to members and guests, maintaining impeccable service standards and contributing to a refined and engaging cigar and bar culture within the club. The ideal candidate will be polished, curious and commercially aware, with experience in a luxury hospitality or private members' club environment. The role will involve managing a skilled cigar team, overseeing inventory and stock control and contributing to the development of unique and sophisticated cigar menus tailored to the club’s discerning clientele. The Pembroke is a late-night venue open from speciality coffee at breakfast to martinis at 3am, and you would be responsible for the delivery of smooth service by you or your team at all times.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Deliver an exceptional and personalised cigar and bar service to members and guests, ensuring every interaction reflects the club’s high standards of hospitality.
- Provide knowledgeable and confident cigar recommendations based on members’ preferences, menu selections and occasions.
- Support the Beverage Director in the maintenance, presentation and execution of the cigar list and bar offering, ensuring accuracy and consistency at all times.
- Assist with the development of cigar, cocktail and spirit pairings for menus, events and private dining experiences.
- Ensure cigars are stored, handled and served correctly, including correct temperatures, cutting and lighting procedures.
- Maintain detailed knowledge of the club’s cigar offering, including agriculture, production & presentation, brands & specialities, vitolas, and general cigar industry knowledge.
- Assist with stock control, cellar organisation and inventory checks for both cigar and bar, ensuring optimal stock levels and minimal wastage.
- Support the Beverage Director during tastings, member events, cigar/spirit/wine dinners and masterclasses.
- Build strong rapport with members, learning and remembering individual preferences to deliver a bespoke and anticipatory service.
- Collaborate effectively with the floor/bar team, kitchen and wider F&B team to ensure seamless service delivery.
- Uphold all health, safety and licensing regulations relating to the service of alcohol and tobacco.
- Lead, motivate, and develop the bar team, ensuring the team are well-trained, knowledgeable and efficient.
- Create staff rotas to ensure the bar is adequately staffed at all times, factoring in peak hours and member demand.
- Monitor the cigar department’s financial performance, managing costs to ensure profitability while maintaining high-quality standards.
REQUIREMENTS
- A recognised qualification (e.g., Maestro de Habanos) or equivalent practical cigar knowledge.
- Previous experience as a Cigar Sommelier or senior cigar service role within a fine dining, luxury hospitality, private members' club environment or similar.
- Strong knowledge of classic and emerging cigar regions, cigar varieties, styles and service techniques.
- A natural enthusiasm for cigars and the bar industry and a desire to continue learning and developing professionally.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with confidence engaging a discerning and international membership.
- Strong attention to detail and pride in maintaining exceptional service standards.
- Ability to remain calm, organised and professional in a fast-paced service environment.
- A collaborative mindset with the ability to take direction while also showing initiative.
WHAT WE OFFER
- Best-in-class salary
- Family meal on shift
- Industry-leading Learning & Development opportunities
- Pension scheme – including employer contributions.
- Annual staff award ceremony and party
- More benefits to be set up as we open
Cigar Sommelier in London employer: Monty's
The Pembroke, located in the prestigious Belgravia, is an exceptional employer that offers a vibrant work culture steeped in luxury and hospitality. As a Cigar Sommelier, you will enjoy industry-leading learning and development opportunities, a competitive salary, and the chance to engage with a discerning clientele in a unique private members' club environment. With a focus on personalised service and employee growth, The Pembroke is dedicated to creating a rewarding experience for its staff while delivering unforgettable moments for its members.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cigar Sommelier in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend events, join cigar clubs, and connect with industry folks. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Cigar Sommelier gig at The Pembroke.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let your enthusiasm for cigars and hospitality shine through. Share your favourite pairings or experiences to make a lasting impression.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared for a tasting! If you land an interview, they might ask you to demonstrate your knowledge. Brush up on your cigar varieties and service techniques so you can impress them with your expertise.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining The Pembroke team and contributing to our exceptional member experiences.
We think you need these skills to ace Cigar Sommelier in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your love for cigars and hospitality shine through. We want to see that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about providing exceptional experiences for our members.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in luxury hospitality or private members' clubs. We’re looking for someone who understands the nuances of high-end service, so don’t be shy about showcasing your skills!
Be Personable:In your cover letter, try to connect with us on a personal level. Share anecdotes or experiences that reflect your personality and how you can contribute to our unique club culture at The Pembroke.
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 opportunity as a Cigar Sommelier!
How to prepare for a job interview at Monty's
✨Know Your Cigars Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your cigar knowledge before the interview. Understand different types, regions, and brands, as well as how to recommend them based on personal preferences. Being able to discuss the nuances of cigars confidently will impress your interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Hospitality Skills
This role is all about providing exceptional service, so be ready to share examples of how you've gone above and beyond for guests in previous positions. Highlight your ability to build rapport and create memorable experiences, as this is key to succeeding at The Pembroke.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect to face situational questions or even practical demonstrations during your interview. Think about how you would handle specific scenarios, like recommending a cigar for a special occasion or managing a busy bar environment. Practising these responses can help you feel more confident.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
The Pembroke values teamwork, so be prepared to discuss how you've worked effectively with others in the past. Share examples of how you've collaborated with kitchen staff or bar teams to ensure smooth service, as this will show that you're a team player who can contribute positively to their culture.
