Junior Sommelier

The Roof Gardens is a social club in the sky, 100 feet above the streets of Kensington. Close to an acre of private gardens with views across London to the horizon, The Roof Gardens is a new generation members club. A place of escape, bursting with wildflowers, olive and mulberry trees, grassy lawns and hidden nooks. An Art Deco gem created in 1938, The Roof Gardens has a legendary legacy. The Roof Gardens' community is united by open-mindedness, optimism and kindness, not defined by background.

We are looking for a committed Junior Sommelier to join The Roof Gardens (TRG) team to deliver first class wine operations across our spaces. You will be working with a busy team carrying out all functions related to wine in the club. You will advise members/guests on their choices whilst providing an engaging, friendly and charismatic service. You will ensure operations and processes are delivered by the team to ensure a first class service, and furthermore, support excellent training opportunities for our team. Engaging with Members is essential, therefore a passion for delivering the highest levels of service is essential.

Your main responsibilities will include:

• Operations & Service
  • Support the creation development of wine lists, alongside the Sommelier team.
  • Oversee day to day wine operations (mise-en-place, stock taking, inventory, wine list development, table-servicing, cleaning, glassware, wine fridges, clear down etc).
  • Welcome members and guests in a friendly and accommodating manner, making a great first impression and looking after important tables as required.
  • Provide personalised wine recommendations to members and guests to enhance their dining experience.
  • Collaborate closely with the Sommelier Team to create innovative wine pairings that complement the menu offering.
  • Support Head Sommelier/Assistant Head Sommelier in the development and implementation of appropriate wine training for respective F&B/FOH/Events team members to support knowledge and facilitate strong sales.
  • Ensure to always deliver and meet the standard for service excellence and professionalism within the sommelier team.
  • Work with the Sommelier Team to deliver exceptional standards of service within Food and Beverage Operations based on TRG's values.
  • Work collaboratively with the Sommelier Team to deliver the objectives of the Food and Beverage department.
• Finance & Inventory Management
  • Work closely with the Head Sommelier /Assistant Head Sommelier to achieve profitability and to meet your revenue for your area.
  • With Head Sommelier and Assistant Head Sommelier oversee inventory management and work with the Stock Controller/Bars Manager to conduct regular stock take, audits etc.
• Maintenance & Compliance
  • Ensure the cellars and wine stores are safe and meticulously maintained to the highest standards.
  • Complete opening and closing duties to ensure compliance and quality assurance of standards are maintained.
  • Ensure adherence to health & safety, food hygiene and fire regulations are followed and any other Company policy and procedure.
  • Ensure full adherence to the licence operating requirements which always require compliance.

This job description reflects the present requirements of the post and should not be seen as an exhaustive list of responsibilities. Duties and responsibilities may develop and change in consultation with line management.

The skills and experience which will help you succeed in this role:

• Prior experience in a similar role in high quality, destination restaurant or private members' club in a similar role.
• Possess a WSET level or equivalent qualification.
• A deep passion for wine coupled with the desire to continue expanding your knowledge.
• A hands-on, proactive and enthusiastic team player.
• A passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences, with a commitment to service excellence.
• Warm, personable and professional at all times with exceptional attention to detail and with the ability to look ahead and pre-empt issues or challenges.
• Exceptional communication skills and rapport-building abilities and a great memory for names and faces.
• Passion for championing diversity, equality, equity and inclusion.
• You will possess a friendly, characterful demeanour and take genuine pleasure in supporting your colleagues.
• Strong network with suppliers, producers and winemakers across the UK and beyond is beneficial.
• Strong network within hospitality industry to support us in our recruitment needs.
• Desire to work flexible hours including nights and weekends, and be happy to travel on suppliers visits / training days etc.

Our Benefits:

• Competitive salary above market rate.
• Late night taxi allowance.
• Meals on duty.
• 28 days holiday, plus an extra 'celebrate you day' & a paid volunteering day (increasing up to 33 days with each year of continuous service).
• 50% discount when dining in our restaurants.
• Recognition vouchers awarded when your efforts are acknowledged by members.
• Generous 'Refer a Friend' scheme up to £1,000.
• Team socials to celebrate our successes.
• Uniform and dry cleaning provided.
• Access to Wagestream for financial well-being support.
• 24/7 confidential well-being and mental health support via our Employee Assistance Program.
• Growth opportunities, both personally and professionally.
• Breakout spaces with showers, secure storage, and areas to relax with colleagues.
• Company pension scheme.
• Access to Hospitality Action benefits hub including eye Test vouchers.

We are a community united by attitude, curiosity and optimism, not defined by background. We celebrate individuality and free expression. It doesn't matter where you have come from, it's where you are going. The Roof Gardens is a welcoming place of acceptance where growth is nurtured, experiences are shared, stories are exchanged and ideas are born. If you'd like to join us on the next chapter of The Roof Gardens, we'd love to hear from you.