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- Tasks: Lead and elevate our wine department, curating an exceptional wine list and mentoring a talented team.
- Company: Join RB Holdings, a prestigious hospitality group with exclusive venues in London and New York.
- Benefits: Earn up to £48,500 plus bonuses, enjoy 28 days holiday, and access private medical insurance.
- Why this job: Shape the future of our wine offerings while delivering exceptional guest experiences.
- Qualifications: 2+ years as a Head/Senior Sommelier and WSET Level 3 or 4 preferred.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 70000 £ 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.
Head Sommelier - Oswald\'s - Front of house in City of Westminster employer: RB Holdings
Contact Detail:
RB Holdings Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Sommelier - Oswald\'s - Front of house in City of Westminster
✨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! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your knowledge about wines and pairings. This will demonstrate your passion and authority in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t be shy about following up! After interviews or networking events, drop a quick thank-you note or message. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Sommelier - Oswald\'s - Front of house 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 the world of wine. We want to see that you're not just knowledgeable but genuinely passionate about it.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for this role. Highlight your relevant experience as a Head Sommelier and any specific achievements that align with our values at RB Holdings. We appreciate attention to detail!
Be Authentic: Don’t be afraid to let your personality come through in your application. We’re looking for someone who can connect with our guests and team, so show us who you are and why you’d be a great fit for Oswald’s.
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 team!
How to prepare for a job interview at RB Holdings
✨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 you to lead and mentor a team of sommeliers. Think about examples from your past experiences where you've successfully developed others or improved team performance. Highlighting your leadership style and how you foster a culture of excellence will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Pairing Questions
Expect questions about food and wine pairings, especially how you would collaborate with the Executive Chef. Have a few creative pairing ideas ready to share, demonstrating your ability to enhance the dining experience through thoughtful recommendations.
✨Emphasise Exceptional Service
The role is all about delivering discreetly exceptional service. Prepare to discuss how you’ve gone above and beyond for guests in previous roles. Share specific anecdotes that illustrate your commitment to creating memorable dining experiences, as this aligns perfectly with the company’s values.
