At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and curate a unique wine program for a luxury estate.
- Company: Join a prestigious estate in South West England known for exceptional guest experiences.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, relocation support, and accommodation options.
- Why this job: Make your mark in a dynamic role with creative freedom in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: WSET Level 3 or 4 preferred; experience in luxury dining is essential.
- Other info: This is the first dedicated sommelier position, offering autonomy in shaping the wine list.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 56000 £ per year.
Head Sommelier for beautiful estate in South West England.
We are seeking an experienced Head Sommelier to curate a unique wine program for an exceptional luxury estate in South West England. This is a rare opportunity for a wine professional to build and curate their own wine list and shape the guest experience in a highly regarded destination. This role is ideal for a dynamic, forward-thinking sommelier eager to leave a lasting impact. The estate offers a collaborative environment, with flexibility for the right individual to create an exceptional wine program.
- Leadership Role: First dedicated sommelier position, providing autonomy in wine list development and team structure.
- Service & Experience: You will oversee the main restaurant in a boutique hotel, and another casual dining concept on the estate.
- Profile: Down-to-earth, professional, and personable with experience in luxury dining.
- Qualifications: WSET Level 3 or 4 preferred.
- Ideal Background: Proven expertise in high-end hospitality, capable of balancing a refined yet accessible approach to wine service.
Candidates from London and beyond are encouraged to apply.
Head Sommelier employer: Smyth & Co
Contact Detail:
Smyth & Co Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Sommelier
✨Tip Number 1
Network with other sommeliers and wine professionals in the South West England area. Attend local wine events or tastings to make connections that could lead to insider information about the role and the estate.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the estate thoroughly, including its history, current wine offerings, and dining concepts. This knowledge will not only impress during interviews but also help you articulate your vision for their wine program.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in high-end hospitality and how they relate to the unique challenges of this role. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully curated wine lists or enhanced guest experiences.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your personality during the interview process. The ideal candidate is described as down-to-earth and personable, so be sure to convey your passion for wine and your approach to creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Sommelier
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in luxury dining and any relevant qualifications, such as WSET Level 3 or 4. Emphasise your leadership skills and any previous roles where you curated wine lists or managed a team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for wine and hospitality. Discuss your vision for the wine program at the estate and how your background aligns with their needs. Be personable and professional to reflect the desired profile.
Showcase Your Expertise: Include specific examples of your achievements in previous roles, such as successful wine pairings, events you’ve organised, or innovative wine programs you’ve developed. This will demonstrate your capability to shape the guest experience.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your documents for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial in the hospitality industry.
How to prepare for a job interview at Smyth & Co
✨Showcase Your Wine Knowledge
As a Head Sommelier, your expertise in wine is crucial. Be prepared to discuss your favourite wines, regions, and vintages, as well as how you would curate a unique wine list for the estate. This is your chance to demonstrate your passion and knowledge.
✨Emphasise Leadership Skills
Since this role involves leading a team, highlight your leadership experience. Share examples of how you've successfully managed a team in a high-end dining environment and how you plan to foster collaboration and creativity within your new team.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle guest interactions. Think about scenarios where you had to manage difficult situations or provide exceptional service, and be ready to share those experiences.
✨Express Your Vision for the Wine Programme
The estate is looking for someone to shape their wine programme. Be ready to articulate your vision for the wine list, including how you would balance luxury with accessibility, and how you would enhance the overall guest experience through your selections.