At a Glance
- Tasks: Create memorable guest experiences through wine recommendations and food pairings.
- Company: Rockliffe, a luxurious five-star resort in a stunning countryside setting.
- Benefits: Pension scheme, private medical insurance, enhanced annual leave, and staff meals.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Join an exciting transformation and build a respected wine programme from the ground up.
- Qualifications: Passion for wine, experience in hospitality, and strong service standards.
The predicted salary is between 29412 - 35948 £ per year.
Set within a 375-acre estate on the banks of the River Tees, Rockliffe is a five-star resort that blends heritage, luxury and natural beauty.
Located in the quiet village of Hurworth, in the heart of the Tees Valley and close to the borders of County Durham and North Yorkshire, it offers a peaceful countryside setting with exceptional facilities.
Surrounded by sweeping views and beautifully kept gardens, the resort features elegant bedrooms and a sense of quiet luxury, shaped by a warm northern spirit.
Guests can enjoy an award-winning spa, play on the longest golf course in the UK and experience refined fine dining, all within a restored eighteenth century estate designed for both relaxation and indulgence.
Job Purpose
Rockliffe is entering an exciting new chapter.
Under the culinary direction of James and Maria Close, the resort is undergoing a major transformation, with ambitious new food and beverage concepts that will redefine the guest experience.
Alongside this transformation, we're creating a wine programme that we believe has the potential to become one of the most exciting and respected in the UK.
This isn't simply an opportunity to manage an established wine list.
It's a chance to help build, shape and grow a programme from the ground up—working with exceptional wines, passionate people and a team that shares a genuine love for hospitality.
- Day to day you will cover three very different venues;
- Rialto
- our vibrant all-day Italian-American restaurant and the heart of the wine programme, with a particular focused on Italy and North America.
- a Japanese-inspired cocktail bar where wine, sake, premium spirits and beautifully crafted cocktails come together.
- The Morning Room
- offering a refined take of the British afternoon tea experience with English sparkling wines and speciality teas.
Every venue offers its own style of service, giving you the opportunity to develop across a broad range of hospitality experiences.
Key Responsibilities
- Creating memorable guest experiences through genuine hospitality
- Recommending wines and building thoughtful food pairings
- Supporting service across all three venues
- Managing stock and cellar organisation (high level organisational skills are vital)
- Training and inspiring the wider front-of-house team
- Become an ambassador for our wine programme
Who We're Looking For
Qualifications are important, but they're not what will get you this job.
We're looking for someone with real passion.
Someone who gets excited talking about wine.
Someone who enjoys learning, teaching and making wine accessible to guests.
Someone who understands that hospitality always comes before ego.
Ideally, you'll have
- Experience in quality restaurants or luxury hospitality
- Strong wine and food pairing knowledge
- Excellent service standards and attention to detail
- The ability to remain calm and organised during busy service
- WSET Level 3, CMS Introductory or Certified, ASI Level 2 or equivalent (preferred, not essential)
Why Join?
To be part of a fantastic food and beverage team within a premium hospitality environment during an exciting period of transformation and growth.
- A Day in the Life of a Guest Stay (Overnight Stay within the First 6 Months)
- Pension Scheme (Aegon)
- Hospitality Rewards Scheme
- Life Assurance (Legal & General)
- Private Medical Insurance (WPA)
- Selected Discounts Across the Resort
- Enhanced Annual Leave for Long Service
- Employee Assistance Programme (Hospitality Action)
- Staff Meals
- Uniform Laundry Service
- “Our success is dependent on every single individual in our team”
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Assistant Head Sommelier employer: Rockliffe
Rockliffe Hall is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises luxury service and employee development. Located in the picturesque setting of the River Tees, team members benefit from a supportive environment that encourages growth through mentorship and collaboration, making it an ideal place for those passionate about delivering unforgettable experiences in the hospitality industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Head Sommelier
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Rockliffe. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Rockliffe
Don't be shy about reaching out to Rockliffe directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Head Sommelier
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Rockliffe and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rockliffe
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
