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- Tasks: Curate an exceptional wine list and lead a passionate sommelier team.
- Company: Join a prestigious hospitality group with exclusive venues in London and New York.
- Benefits: Earn up to £48,500, enjoy 28 days holiday, and access private medical care.
- Why this job: Elevate your career in a dynamic environment focused on craftsmanship and personal service.
- Qualifications: 2+ years as a Head/Senior Sommelier and WSET Level 3 or 4 preferred.
- Other info: Experience a culture of excellence with opportunities for professional growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 49000 £ per year.
RB Holdings is a growing hospitality group shaping some of the most distinctive private members’ clubs and food businesses in London and New York. Founded by Robin Birley, our businesses are built on discretion, craftsmanship, and deeply personal service - delivered by teams who take pride in doing things properly. Our London portfolio includes 5 Hertford Street, Oswald’s, and Birley Bakery and Chocolate Shop in Chelsea. In 2025, we expanded internationally with the opening of Maxime’s, alongside a new Birley Bakery in New York City.
We are seeking an exceptional Head Sommelier to steward and elevate our wine department to the highest level. This role demands an individual of exceptional taste, authority, and vision—someone capable of refining a distinguished wine list while shaping its future direction. You will have ownership of the department, rigorous cellar stewardship, and the cultivation of a polished sommelier team dedicated to delivering seamless, intuitive, and discreetly exceptional service, with the opportunity to earn up to £70,000 p/a.
Why work with us as a Head Sommelier?
- Salary of up to £48,500 per annum + discretionary service charge.
- 28 days holiday per year (including bank holidays).
- Birthday day off.
- Discounted gym membership with GymFlex.
- Monthly well-being days with our Masseuse, Reflexologist, and Chiropodist.
- Private medical insurance with BUPA.
- Private dental insurance with BUPA.
- Workplace nursery scheme.
- Cycle to Work Scheme.
- Employee Assistance Programme – Hospitality Action.
- Access to a company doctor.
- Eyecare & specs vouchers.
- In-house industry training.
- Sponsored social events.
- Recommend a friend bonus of £1,000.
- Staff Accommodation (subject to availability).
- Online retail discounts.
- Free English Classes.
- Freshly prepared meals whilst on duty.
- And more!
Working Hours:
5 day working week between Monday – Saturday on a rota basis (seven shifts a week). Shifts will include evenings; flexibility is essential. Bank Holidays and the Christmas period off – our venues are closed.
What you will do
- Wine Department Ownership: Curate and steward the wine list, ensuring a carefully balanced, and dynamically evolving selection that complements and elevates the culinary offering.
- Cellar Management: Oversee stock management and inventory to ensure optimal stock levels and cost controls.
- Leadership & Development: Lead, mentor, and develop the sommelier team, fostering a culture defined by intellectual rigour, shared passion, and exemplary hospitality.
- Guest Experience: Deliver exceptional, expert service in the dining room, guiding guests through considered recommendations and informed discourse that deepens their engagement with the cuisine and cellar.
- Pairing Creation: Work closely with the Executive Chef to create innovative food and wine pairings.
What We Are Looking For
- A minimum of 2+ years of experience as a Head/Senior Sommelier in a high-calibre fine dining or luxury hotel environment.
- WSET Level 3 or 4 (Diploma) or CMS Certified/Advanced Sommelier preferred.
- Expertise of Old and New World wines; experience with Sake or a regional focus if applicable is a bonus.
- A composed and charismatic leader, distinguished by exceptional communication, assured initiative, and a calm, professional presence under pressure.
Experience & Employment Details
- Experience: Required
- Employment: Full-time
- Schedule: Monday-Saturday (5 days a week)
- Salary: up to £48,500 yearly
- Benefits: Additional Service Charge, Private Medical & Dental Care
Head Sommelier in City of Westminster employer: Oswald’s
Contact Detail:
Oswald’s Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Sommelier in City of Westminster
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend wine tastings, industry events, and connect with fellow sommeliers. Building relationships can lead to job opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! When you get the chance, share your knowledge about wines and pairings during interviews or casual meet-ups. It’s a great way to demonstrate your passion and authority in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere—apply through our website! We’re looking for someone who fits our culture of craftsmanship and personal service, so make sure your application reflects that.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for your interview by researching our venues and wine offerings. Tailor your responses to show how you can elevate our wine department and enhance the guest experience at RB Holdings.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Sommelier in City of Westminster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Wine: When writing your application, let your love for wine shine through! Share your experiences and what excites you about curating a wine list. We want to see your personality and passion for the industry.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head Sommelier role. Highlight relevant experience, especially in fine dining or luxury environments. We’re looking for someone who can lead and inspire, so showcase your leadership skills!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for our team. Be specific about your achievements and how they align with our values of discretion and exceptional service. Make it personal!
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 don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, we love seeing applications come through our own channels!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oswald’s
✨Know Your Wines Inside Out
As a Head Sommelier, you need to demonstrate your expertise in both Old and New World wines. Brush up on your knowledge of various wine regions, grape varieties, and tasting notes. Be prepared to discuss your favourite wines and why they stand out to you—this shows passion and authority.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role requires a composed and charismatic leader. Think about examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led a team or mentored others. Be ready to share how you foster a culture of excellence and collaboration within your sommelier team.
✨Prepare for Pairing Questions
Since you'll be working closely with the Executive Chef, expect questions about food and wine pairings. Prepare a few innovative pairing ideas that highlight your creativity and understanding of flavour profiles. This will show your ability to elevate the dining experience.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the company’s vision for the wine department and how they see it evolving. Engaging with the interviewers not only shows your interest but also helps you assess if this is the right fit for you.
