At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the wine program and curate an exciting Australian wine list.
- Company: Milk Beach, a modern Australian restaurant in vibrant Soho.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, discounts, flexible hours, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a fun, inclusive team with great social events and work-life balance.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team and showcase Australia's finest wines.
- Qualifications: 2+ years in wine management and WSET Level 3 or equivalent.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 40000 £ per year.
Milk Beach is a modern Australian restaurant and bar located in the beautiful Ilona Rose House building, found down a passageway off Greek Street in Soho, London. Australian cuisine is a wonderful combination of Mediterranean ingredient-led cooking; southeast Asian heat and flavours; fresh seafood; and a culture of cooking over fire. Australian wines are now some of the best in the world and Milk Beach is the place to experience them, with a 120 bin list dedicated to showcasing the very best winemakers across the country.
A bustling modern Australian restaurant in the heart of Soho is looking for an experienced and dynamic Head Sommelier to lead its wine program and cement its place as the leading destination to experience Australian wine in London. An opportunity to work with Australia’s most iconic wineries, Wine Australia, and Tourism Australia to champion Australian wine to a UK audience. An opportunity for someone to achieve a Star Wine List award.
A key leadership role in the business, the Head Sommelier will have full responsibility for curating and sourcing an exciting and unique wine list for the restaurant; and will have full accountability for wine operations, wine service, team training, and wine sales and GP financial results.
- Wine List: Curation of a wine list that is unique in the European restaurant scene, that showcases the outstanding quality Australian wines have to offer.
- Target a Star Wine List award in 2027.
- Foster and grow relationships with all suppliers, Australian winemakers, Wine Australia, and Tourism Australia.
- Make Milk Beach known as the go-to destination for Australian wine in London.
Oversee wine operations:
- Run the wine operations of the restaurant as their own business with full operating and financial responsibility.
- Ensure impeccable, knowledgeable, but approachable and fun wine service in the restaurant.
- Responsible for sales targets, gross profit targets, wine inventory and stock, ensuring proper storage, rotation, and ordering for optimal COGS management.
Events:
- Host our ‘Toast Australia’ dinner series in which we partner with some of Australia’s most iconic winemakers and winery owners.
- Host trade tastings alongside Amelia Jukes and Wilem Powel.
Training: Wine is such an important area of development for many front of house team members. Team training and mentorship is a vital and important responsibility for this role.
Build reputation: Build and maintain strong relationships with winemakers, suppliers, and distributors; both locally and globally, to secure exclusive and high-quality offerings.
Who We Are Looking For:
- Industry experience: 2+ years as a wine manager or supervisor and/or Head Sommelier.
- WSET Level 3 or Diploma certification, or equivalent knowledge.
- Previous restaurant management experience is also valued, but not required.
- Service oriented: High energy, social and engaging personality, to bring a bit of fun to the wine experience for our guests.
- A natural ability to build rapport with both guests and staff, providing exceptional guest experience and engaging training.
- Strong business acumen with a high attention to detail to manage budgets, sales, and inventory.
- Someone with a good understanding of Australian culture and hospitality and a genuine interest in and knowledge of Australian wine and understanding of its unique regional characteristics.
- Passion for L&D and Hospitality: We are seeking someone who is passionate about nurturing curiosity and pushing team members to learn and develop in their own wine journeys.
- Someone who loves dining out and who is plugged into the London restaurant and wine scene and trends.
What We Offer / Benefits:
- Experienced management team who have been in positions for 2+ years including Head Chef, AGM, Restaurant Manager, Head of People.
- Career development and external educational development including management training.
- Personalised recognition schemes.
- Friendly and motivating team environment with an inclusive and diverse workforce.
- Flexibility and work/life balance.
- Perks including 25-50% employee discounts at all group restaurants.
- Cost price wine.
- Meals, softs, coffees, and teas while on shift.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Team social events including comedy nights, bowling, darts and more.
Head Sommelier employer: Sommelier Edit
Milk Beach is an exceptional employer located in the vibrant heart of Soho, London, offering a dynamic work environment that celebrates Australian cuisine and wine. With a strong focus on employee growth, the restaurant provides opportunities for career development, including management training and personalized recognition schemes, all within a friendly and inclusive team culture. Enjoy unique perks such as generous employee discounts, flexible work-life balance, and engaging team social events, making it a rewarding place to thrive in the hospitality industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 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 Sommelier Edit. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Sommelier Edit
Don't be shy about reaching out to Sommelier Edit 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 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 Sommelier Edit 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 Sommelier Edit
✨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!
