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- Tasks: Curate an exceptional wine list and lead a passionate sommelier team.
- Company: Join a prestigious hospitality group shaping exclusive clubs 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 with a focus on craftsmanship and service.
- Qualifications: 2+ years as a Head/Senior Sommelier and WSET Level 3 or 4 preferred.
- Other info: Enjoy fresh meals on duty and participate in sponsored social events.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 56000 £ 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.
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.
Head Sommelier employer: Oswald’s
Contact Detail:
Oswald’s Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Sommelier
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend wine tastings, industry events, and even 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! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your insights on wine pairings and trends. This will demonstrate your passion and knowledge, making you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply—engage! Reach out to the hiring managers directly through LinkedIn or email. A personal touch can make a huge difference and show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep your skills sharp! Consider taking a short course or attending workshops to stay updated on wine trends and service techniques. This not only boosts your CV but also gives you great talking points during interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Sommelier
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 and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Head Sommelier role. Highlight relevant experience, especially in fine dining or luxury environments, and showcase your leadership skills. We appreciate attention to detail!
Be Authentic: Don’t be afraid to be yourself in your application. We value authenticity and want to know who you are beyond your qualifications. Share anecdotes that reflect your character and approach to hospitality.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures it gets into the right hands. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oswald’s
✨Know Your Wines Inside Out
As a Head Sommelier, you’ll need to demonstrate 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 shows passion and authority.
✨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.
✨Prepare for Pairing Questions
Expect questions about food and wine pairings, especially how you would collaborate with the Executive Chef. Prepare a few innovative pairing ideas that highlight your creativity and understanding of flavour profiles. This will show your ability to enhance the guest experience.
✨Demonstrate Exceptional Service Mindset
Since the role emphasises delivering exceptional service, think about how you can convey your commitment to guest satisfaction. Share anecdotes that illustrate your approach to providing personalised recommendations and creating memorable dining experiences.
