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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 £70,000, enjoy 28 days holiday, and access private medical insurance.
- 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: Enjoy fresh meals on duty and opportunities for professional development.
The predicted salary is between 48500 - 48500 £ 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, 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/specific 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.
Front of House - Head Sommelier employer: Oswald’s
Contact Detail:
Oswald’s Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Front of House - Head Sommelier
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend wine tastings, industry events, and local meet-ups. The more people you know in the hospitality scene, the better your chances of landing that Head Sommelier role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Create a personal portfolio showcasing your wine selections, pairings, and any innovative ideas you've implemented in previous roles. This will help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to discuss your vision for the wine department and how you can elevate the guest experience. Confidence is key, so rehearse your talking points until they feel natural.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team. Tailor your application to highlight your leadership skills and passion for exceptional service.
We think you need these skills to ace Front of House - Head Sommelier
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Wine: When you're 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 that you’re not just knowledgeable but genuinely passionate about the world of wine.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head Sommelier role. Highlight your relevant experience, especially in fine dining or luxury environments. We’re looking for someone who can lead and inspire, so showcase your leadership skills and any achievements in previous roles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for our team. Be personal and engaging—share your vision for the wine department and how you plan to elevate it. Remember, we value discretion and craftsmanship, so reflect that in your writing!
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, it shows you’re keen to join our growing hospitality group!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oswald’s
✨Know Your Wines Inside Out
As a Head Sommelier, you’ll need to showcase your expertise in both Old and New World wines. Brush up on your knowledge of various regions, grape varieties, and tasting notes. Be prepared to discuss your favourite wines and why they stand out to you—this will demonstrate your passion and authority in the field.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership and mentoring abilities. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully led a team or improved service standards. Be ready to share how you would cultivate a culture of excellence within the sommelier team at RB Holdings.
✨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 that you can elevate the dining experience through thoughtful recommendations.
✨Emphasise Guest Experience
Exceptional service is key in this role. Think about how you can enhance the guest experience through your wine knowledge. Prepare to discuss how you would engage with guests, guide them through the wine list, and create memorable moments that reflect the high standards of RB Holdings.