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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the creation of an exceptional beverage programme and guide guests through flavour journeys.
- Company: Exciting new restaurant opening in Mayfair, blending Japanese cuisine with a world-class beverage experience.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, staff meals, and a creative working environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a flagship opening and collaborate with top chefs and beverage professionals.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Sommelier, knowledge of wine and sake, and a passion for Japanese culture.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth and leadership in a unique dining experience.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Location: 30 Upper Grosvenor Street, Mayfair
About MA/NA
Opening in January 2026 on Upper Grosvenor Street, MA/NA is born from the Japanese philosophy that every ingredient carries an invisible power — a life‑force shaped by nature and the hands that honour it. ‘Mana’ is the spiritual energy that exists beneath the surface of all things. It is felt rather than seen — transforming emotion into experience, and a meal into memory. Guided by this belief, MA/NA offers a seamless blend of restaurant and bar — refined Japanese dishes alongside an exceptional cocktail, wine and sake list. Here, cocktails flow effortlessly into dinner, and dinner naturally returns to drinks. Every element — from design and service to sound and light — is intentional. Each detail celebrates the extraordinary within the simple.
The Role — Assistant Head Sommelier
As Assistant Head Sommelier at MA/NA, you will support the creation and execution of an exceptional beverage programme that celebrates the harmony between wine, sake, and Japanese cuisine. Working closely with the Head Sommelier, you will help develop and maintain a world‑class cellar — one that reflects refinement, discovery, and respect for craftsmanship. You’ll guide guests and team members through a journey of flavour and philosophy, connecting them to the story and energy behind each bottle. Collaborating across the kitchen and bar teams, you’ll help ensure perfect synergy between dishes, cocktails, and pairings, elevating every aspect of the guest experience. This is a dynamic, hands‑on role suited to a Sommelier who embodies curiosity, precision, and emotional intelligence — someone who strives to learn, lead, and grow within a world‑class opening.
Key Responsibilities
- Support all aspects of the wine and sake programme, from sourcing and selection to service and team education
- Assist in curating an innovative, balanced list featuring both iconic producers and artisanal discoveries
- Contribute to the development of a premium sake offering and guest education around Japanese beverages
- Collaborate closely with the Executive Chef, Head Sommelier, and Head of Wine & Sake to craft harmonious food and drink pairings
- Help train and mentor the sommelier and front‑of‑house teams to deliver expert yet intuitive service
- Support cellar management, stock control, and supplier relationships
- Represent MA/NA at industry tastings, events, and collaborations
- Step into leadership responsibilities in the absence of the Head Sommelier
What We’re Looking For
- Proven experience as a Sommelier or Senior Sommelier in a fine dining or high‑end environment
- Strong understanding of international wine regions, producers, and styles
- Knowledge of sake, ideally with WSET Sake Level 3 or a desire to achieve certification
- A refined palate and passion for Japanese cuisine and beverage culture
- Excellent guest communication and storytelling ability
- Organised, motivated, and collaborative approach to service and leadership
- A calm, professional presence and commitment to continuous learning
- A desire to help shape one of London’s most exciting new openings
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and service charge package
- Opportunity to play a key role in the beverage programme for a flagship opening within the Thesleff Group
- Collaboration with world‑class chefs and bar professionals
- Continued training, tasting, and professional development
- Staff meals, wellness initiatives, and a supportive, creative working environment
Join the MA/NA Opening Team
If you are guided by balance, curiosity, and craft — and want to grow within a team that transforms emotion into experience — we’d love to hear from you.
Assistant Head Sommelier - New Opening employer: Thesleff Group
Contact Detail:
Thesleff Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Head Sommelier - New Opening
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, tastings, and workshops to meet people in the wine and hospitality scene. The more connections we make, the better our chances of landing that dream role at MA/NA.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for Japanese cuisine and beverages! When chatting with potential employers, share your experiences and knowledge about sake and wine pairings. Let’s make them feel your enthusiasm for the role!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your storytelling skills! As a Sommelier, it’s all about connecting guests to the story behind each bottle. We should be ready to engage and educate, making every interaction memorable.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and eager to join the MA/NA team.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Head Sommelier - New Opening
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your love for wine, sake, and Japanese cuisine shine through. We want to see your enthusiasm and how it connects to the role of Assistant Head Sommelier at MA/NA.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in fine dining or high-end environments. We’re looking for someone who understands the nuances of beverage pairing and can bring that expertise to our team.
Be Authentic: Don’t be afraid to share your personal journey with wine and sake. We appreciate authenticity, so tell us about your experiences and what drives you in this field. It’s all about connecting with the story behind each bottle!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at MA/NA.
How to prepare for a job interview at Thesleff Group
✨Know Your Wines and Sakes
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of international wine regions and sake varieties. Be prepared to discuss your favourite producers and why you love them. This role is all about connecting guests with the story behind each bottle, so show your passion!
✨Showcase Your Pairing Skills
Think about how you would pair different wines and sakes with Japanese dishes. During the interview, be ready to suggest some creative pairings and explain your thought process. This will demonstrate your understanding of the harmony between food and drink.
✨Emphasise Your Leadership Qualities
As an Assistant Head Sommelier, you'll need to step into leadership roles. Share examples from your past experiences where you've trained or mentored others. Highlight your collaborative approach and how you can contribute to a positive team dynamic.
✨Connect Emotionally with Your Audience
This position requires emotional intelligence and storytelling ability. Practice how you would engage guests with the philosophy behind the beverages. Show that you can transform a simple drink into a memorable experience by sharing its background and significance.