At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver exceptional cigar and bar service, providing personalised recommendations to members and guests.
- Company: The Pembroke, a unique club in the heart of Belgravia, offering eclectic experiences.
- Benefits: Best-in-class salary, family meals, learning opportunities, and a pension scheme.
- Other info: Dynamic late-night venue with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Join a vibrant team and elevate the cigar culture in a luxury hospitality environment.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Cigar Sommelier or in a senior cigar service role required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Steeped in history and situated in the heart of Belgravia, The Pembroke stands apart as a unique club for Londoners. From the spirit of our members to the splendour of our events, we are a home for eclectic and excellent living. A place to eat, drink, dance and meet, The Pembroke opens its doors to those who wish to fill their world with the finest experiences, from cocktails to culture, billiards to business. Our fifth floor Whisky Bar, serving cocktails and a small selection of bar snacks, will be open late afternoon until late night. Stretching across two rooms, the space also includes 'The Nest', an exclusive area for our Committee and Life Members.
Role Overview
To further elevate and enhance our operations, we are seeking an accomplished Cigar Sommelier to contribute and deliver on the club’s success, providing exceptional experiences for our members. The Cigar Sommelier will play a key role in the delivery of the club’s cigar service, supporting the Bars Manager and Assistant Bars Manager in the day-to-day execution of the cigar and bar programme. This role requires a strong foundation of cigar and bar knowledge, an instinct for personalised service and a genuine passion for hospitality. The Cigar Sommelier will be responsible for providing expert guidance to members and guests, maintaining impeccable service standards and contributing to a refined and engaging cigar and bar culture within the club. The ideal candidate will be polished, curious and commercially aware, with experience in a luxury hospitality or private members' club environment. The role will involve managing a skilled cigar team, overseeing inventory and stock control and contributing to the development of unique and sophisticated cigar menus tailored to the club’s discerning clientele. The Pembroke is a late-night venue open from speciality coffee at breakfast to martinis at 3am, and you would be responsible for the delivery of smooth service by you or your team at all times.
Responsibilities
- Deliver an exceptional and personalised cigar and bar service to members and guests, ensuring every interaction reflects the club’s high standards of hospitality.
- Provide knowledgeable and confident cigar recommendations based on members’ preferences, menu selections and occasions.
- Support the Beverage Director in the maintenance, presentation and execution of the cigar list and bar offering, ensuring accuracy and consistency at all times.
- Assist with the development of cigar, cocktail and spirit pairings for menus, events and private dining experiences.
- Ensure cigars are stored, handled and served correctly, including correct temperatures, cutting and lighting procedures.
- Maintain detailed knowledge of the club’s cigar offering, including agriculture, production & presentation, brands & specialities, vitolas, and general cigar industry knowledge.
- Assist with stock control, cellar organisation and inventory checks for both cigar and bar, ensuring optimal stock levels and minimal wastage.
- Support the Beverage Director during tastings, member events, cigar/spirit/wine dinners and masterclasses.
- Build strong rapport with members, learning and remembering individual preferences to deliver a bespoke and anticipatory service.
- Collaborate effectively with the floor/bar team, kitchen and wider F&B team to ensure seamless service delivery.
- Uphold all health, safety and licensing regulations relating to the service of alcohol and tobacco.
- Lead, motivate, and develop the bar team, ensuring the team are well-trained, knowledgeable and efficient.
- Create staff rotas to ensure the bar is adequately staffed at all times, factoring in peak hours and member demand.
- Monitor the cigar department’s financial performance, managing costs to ensure profitability while maintaining high-quality standards.
Requirements
- A recognised qualification (e.g., Maestro de Habanos) or equivalent practical cigar knowledge.
- Previous experience as a Cigar Sommelier or senior cigar service role within a fine dining, luxury hospitality, private members' club environment or similar.
- Strong knowledge of classic and emerging cigar regions, cigar varieties, styles and service techniques.
- A natural enthusiasm for cigars and the bar industry and a desire to continue learning and developing professionally.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with confidence engaging a discerning and international membership.
- Strong attention to detail and pride in maintaining exceptional service standards.
- Ability to remain calm, organised and professional in a fast-paced service environment.
- A collaborative mindset with the ability to take direction while also showing initiative.
What We Offer
- Best-in-class salary
- Family meal on shift
- Industry-leading Learning & Development opportunities
- Pension scheme – including employer contributions.
- Annual staff award ceremony and party
- More benefits to be set up as we open
Cigar Sommelier in London employer: The Pembroke Club London
The Pembroke is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture steeped in history and luxury, located in the heart of Belgravia. As a Cigar Sommelier, you will enjoy best-in-class salary, industry-leading learning and development opportunities, and a supportive environment that fosters personal growth and professional excellence. With a focus on delivering bespoke experiences to our discerning members, you will be part of a dynamic team that values collaboration, creativity, and a passion for hospitality.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cigar Sommelier in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend events, join cigar clubs, and connect with industry folks. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that dream role at The Pembroke.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for cigars! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your knowledge and experiences. Let them see your enthusiasm for the craft and how it aligns with their high standards.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your personalised service skills. Role-play with friends or family to refine your ability to recommend cigars based on preferences. This will help you stand out as someone who truly understands the art of hospitality.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining The Pembroke team and contributing to our unique club culture.
We think you need these skills to ace Cigar Sommelier in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Cigars:When writing your application, let your love for cigars shine through! Share your experiences and knowledge about different cigar varieties and regions. We want to see that you’re not just qualified, but genuinely enthusiastic about the world of cigars.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the unique vibe of The Pembroke. Highlight any relevant experience in luxury hospitality or private members' clubs, and connect your skills to the specific responsibilities mentioned in the job description. We appreciate a personal touch!
Be Professional Yet Approachable:While we’re looking for polished candidates, don’t forget to show your friendly side! Use a conversational tone in your application to convey your interpersonal skills. Remember, we value excellent service and building rapport with our members.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Pembroke Club London
✨Know Your Cigars Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your cigar knowledge before the interview. Understand different types, regions, and how to pair them with drinks. Being able to discuss specific brands and their unique characteristics will show your passion and expertise.
✨Show Off Your Hospitality Skills
This role is all about providing exceptional service, so be ready to share examples of how you've gone above and beyond for guests in the past. Think of specific situations where you created a memorable experience, as this will highlight your commitment to hospitality.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in real-life situations, like handling a difficult customer or managing stock levels during a busy night. Practise your responses to these scenarios, focusing on how you would maintain high service standards under pressure.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Collaboration is key in this role, so be prepared to discuss how you work with others. Share experiences where you’ve led a team or supported colleagues, and emphasise your ability to motivate and develop those around you.
