At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead guest service and events at a stunning vineyard in Kent.
- Company: Join a prestigious English estate known for excellence.
- Benefits: Temporary role with potential extension, working in a beautiful setting.
- Other info: Opportunity to manage diverse guest experiences and events.
- Why this job: Combine your wine knowledge with hands-on hospitality leadership.
- Qualifications: Experience in quality hospitality and strong wine knowledge required.
Take responsibility for guest service, hospitality standards and events at a premium vineyard setting in Kent. This is a brilliant opportunity for a service-led professional who enjoys more than traditional restaurant service. As Head Sommelier, you will support the Cellar Door Manager with the day-to-day guest operation, taking responsibility for service standards, lunches, private bookings, corporate hospitality and multiple events, while supporting sales and memorable guest experiences.
Why choose this Head Sommelier role?
- Temporary role - minimum of 3 months
- Possibility of extension
- Opportunity to work in a premium English vineyard environment
- Exposure to cellar-door sales, lunches, private events and corporate bookings
- A varied role combining service, sales, guest experience and team leadership
What's involved?
As Head Sommelier, you will support the Cellar Door Manager in running the day-to-day guest experience at the estate's tasting room in Kent. You will be visible with guests and the team, ensuring service is warm, knowledgeable, organised and commercially focused.
Key responsibilities include:
- Taking responsibility for guest service across lunches, tastings, retail sales and events
- Supporting the Cellar Door Manager with daily hospitality operations
- Overseeing Cellar Door Hosts and support staff during daily service and event activity
- Managing multiple events, private bookings, walk-ins and corporate hospitality at the same time
- Maintaining smooth service flow across all guest-facing areas
- Using wine knowledge and storytelling to bring the estate, product and setting to life
- Supporting sales, memberships, repeat bookings and customer engagement
- Handling guest feedback, enquiries and service challenges professionally
- Supporting training, product knowledge and performance standards within the team
- Working closely with kitchen, vineyard, production and customer service teams
What we're looking for:
The ideal Head Sommelier will have experience in a quality hospitality environment involving service, sales and guest experience. You might come from a sommelier role, premium restaurant, luxury hotel, members' club, vineyard, visitor attraction, events venue or retail background.
You will need:
- Strong wine knowledge and a genuine passion for guest experience
- Previous supervisory, duty management or senior service experience
- Experience taking responsibility for service standards and event delivery
- Confidence overseeing a team across busy service and multiple events
- Excellent communication and people-management skills
- Strong organisation, attention to detail and problem-solving ability
- Commercial awareness, with confidence supporting sales and memberships
- A natural ability to create polished, personal and memorable service
- A calm, professional approach under pressure
- WSET Level 2 or above would be desirable
- Availability to work shifts on Sundays and Mondays
This Head Sommelier role in Kent would suit a professional who enjoys taking responsibility for service, managing varied guest experiences and supporting a premium vineyard setting. Candidates must have the right to work in the UK and be able to travel easily within Kent, as accommodation is not provided for this role.
Please apply below or contact Kevin Thomas at Platinum Recruitment to find out more.
Head Sommelier employer: Platinum Recruitment Consultancy
Join a prestigious English vineyard in Kent as a Head Sommelier, where you will be part of a team that values service excellence and guest experience. This temporary role not only offers the chance to work in a stunning environment but also provides opportunities for professional growth through exposure to various hospitality operations and events. With a focus on storytelling and knowledgeable service, you'll engage with guests who appreciate fine wine and memorable experiences, making this an ideal position for those passionate about hospitality and wine.
Contact Details:
Platinum Recruitment Consultancy Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Sommelier
✨Get Your Foot in the Door with Walk-Ins
In the hospitality and food service game, a personal touch goes a long way. Instead of waiting for listings, why not walk into local restaurants, cafes, or hotels? Bring your best smile and a CV, and show them that you're eager to join their team right on the spot!
✨Tap into Seasonal Hiring Trends
With temporary roles often popping up during busy seasons, like summer or festive times, keep an eye out for openings as these businesses ramp up. Joining local community groups on social media can also help you stay ahead of the game: think pop-up events, seasonal fairs, or any openings in your area!
✨Utilise Your Network in the Industry
We all know people in the hospitality world, right? Now's the time to message those friends or acquaintances who might already be working in restaurants or bars. They could give you the insider scoop on who’s hiring or even put in a good word for you – it’s all about that inside connection!
✨Apply Through Us for Quick Visibility
Don't forget you can apply for temporary roles directly through our website! It’s not just about the big chain restaurants; many smaller, local places look there for quick hires. Plus, it helps us get you on the radar of employers looking for passionate workers like you, so what are you waiting for?
We think you need these skills to ace Head Sommelier
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Skills:In the hospitality-food-service game, your ability to connect with customers is key. Make sure to highlight any relevant experience in your CV, like working in cafes or restaurants, and emphasise your skills in teamwork and communication. Don't forget to mention any customer service training or certifications you've got under your belt!
Flexibility is Your Best Friend:Since this is a temporary role, you'll want to showcase your flexibility in your application. In your cover letter, mention your availability and willingness to work various shifts, including weekends or holidays. Employers love knowing they can rely on you during busy periods!
Bring Your Personality to the Front:In hospitality, it's not just about what you can do; it's about who you are! Let your personality shine through in your cover letter. A warm, engaging tone can really make your application stand out and show your potential to create a welcoming atmosphere for customers.
Include Relevant References:References can make a huge difference in the hospitality-field. Consider including a couple of references from previous employers or colleagues in your CV who can vouch for your customer service skills and ability to thrive in fast-paced environments. This adds credibility and elevates your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at Platinum Recruitment Consultancy
✨Show Off Your Customer Service Skills
In the hospitality-food-service sector, it's all about the customer experience. Be ready to discuss specific examples where you've gone above and beyond for a customer or handled a difficult situation. They’ll appreciate knowing that you can keep your cool and maintain a positive attitude even when things get a bit hectic!
✨Know Your Menu Inside and Out
Whether you're applying for a temporary role as a server or in the kitchen, it’s important to familiarise yourself with the menu and any signature dishes they serve at Platinum Recruitment Consultancy. During the interview, they might ask about your food and drink recommendations, so having a few tasty suggestions up your sleeve will show you're genuinely interested in contributing to the team.
✨Emphasise Your Flexibility
Temporary roles often require a bit of juggling with shifts and responsibilities. Be sure to convey your willingness to adapt and take on different roles as needed. Share instances where you’ve quickly switched tasks or taken the initiative to help out your colleagues, showing that you're a team player.
✨Dress the Part and Exude Personality
In hospitality, first impressions matter! Even for a temporary position, donning smart-casual attire can set the right tone. Plus, don't hold back on your personality – let your enthusiasm shine through, as they’re looking for someone who can mesh well with the team and create a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
