Cigar Sommelier - London

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