At a Glance
- 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 p/a with amazing perks like private medical insurance and well-being days.
- Other info: Enjoy a vibrant workplace culture with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Elevate your career in a dynamic environment with a focus on craftsmanship and personal service.
- Qualifications: 2+ years as a Head/Senior Sommelier and WSET Level 3 or 4 preferred.
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.
Head Sommelier in London employer: RB Holdings
RB Holdings is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that celebrates culinary creativity and teamwork in the heart of London. With a focus on employee well-being, we provide generous benefits such as paid trial shifts, comprehensive medical and dental insurance, and a cycle to work scheme, ensuring our team members thrive both personally and professionally. Join us at Nico’s, where your passion for Italian cuisine can flourish in a supportive environment that values growth and collaboration.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Sommelier in London
✨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 always on the lookout for talented individuals who fit our culture. Tailor your application to highlight how you can elevate our wine department.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for the interview by researching our venues and wine offerings. Being knowledgeable about our specific needs shows you’re serious about the role and ready to make an impact from day one.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Sommelier in London
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 the world of wine. We want to see that you’re not just knowledgeable but genuinely passionate about it.
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 elevate our wine department, so showcase your 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 our wine list and how you plan to lead and develop our sommelier team. We love creativity!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our fantastic team at RB Holdings!
How to prepare for a job interview at RB Holdings
✨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 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, so think about examples from your past where you've successfully led a team or mentored others. Prepare to share how you foster a culture of excellence and collaboration within your sommelier team, as this will resonate with the interviewers.
✨Pairing Perfection
Be ready to discuss innovative food and wine pairings. Consider creating a few unique pairings that could elevate the dining experience at RB Holdings. This not only showcases your creativity but also your understanding of how wine enhances culinary offerings.
✨Engage with the Guest Experience
Prepare to talk about how you would enhance the guest experience through your service. Think about how you can guide guests through their wine choices and create memorable interactions. Highlight any previous experiences where you’ve gone above and beyond for guests.
