Head Sommelier

THE WILDE is a perfectly formed, international collection of private membership Clubs combining classical style, excellent food and charming service with cutting edge content, culture and ideas.
It is a private membership club built on foundations of discretion, revelry, culture, and inclusion.

**Head Sommelier**:
The Head Sommelier is responsible for curating an exceptional wine program and providing expert guidance on wine selection and service at the exclusive member club. They ensure the club offers a distinguished wine list tailored to member preferences and oversee all aspects of wine service to enhance the overall dining experience.

**Main Activities and Responsibilities**:
Ensure compliance with policies & standard procedures.
Conduct daily meetings and/or briefings before each service/shift.
Supervise daily operations, including opening and closing procedures.
Provide feedback to the staff weekly (or every day).
Monitor sales and profit margins and adjust procedures accordingly.
Create schedules for staff to ensure proper coverage at all times.
Conduct regular walkthroughs to verify maintenance compliance with our standards.
Develop and maintain an extensive wine list that reflects the club's high standards and member preferences, including selections from diverse regions and vintages.
Work closely with the Food & Beverage Manager, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager to pair wines with menu offerings and special events, enhancing the dining experience.
Train and mentor staff on wine knowledge, service techniques, and proper wine presentation, ensuring consistent and exceptional service standards.
Manage wine inventory, including purchasing, receiving, storage, and rotation, to maintain quality and minimize waste.
Monitor wine sales and analyze trends to optimize inventory selection, pricing strategies, and promotions to maximize revenue and profitability.
Conduct wine tastings, educational seminars, and special events to engage members and enhance their appreciation of wine.
Provide personalized recommendations and guidance to members and guests on wine selection, food pairings, and cellar management.
Ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations regarding alcohol service, including responsible beverage service and licensing requirements.
Maintain relationships with wine suppliers, distributors, and wineries to stay informed about new releases, trends, and industry developments.
Collaborate with the marketing team to promote the club's wine program through wine dinners, promotions, and social media channels.
Manage other activities relating to or resulting from what is indicated in the previous points.

**Key Competencies**:
**Required Education and Experience**:
Certified Sommelier designation (e.g., Court of Master Sommeliers, Wine & Spirit Education Trust) required; Advanced Sommelier or Master Sommelier preferred.
Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts, or related field preferred.
Proven experience (5+ years) as a sommelier in a high-end restaurant, hotel, or private club setting.
Knowledge of one or more foreign languages (min. Italian and English).

**General Knowledge and Technical Skills**:
Extensive knowledge of wine regions, varietals, vintages, and production methods.
Strong understanding of wine service techniques, including decanting, temperature control, and glassware selection.
Familiarity with wine inventory management systems, POS systems, and Microsoft Office suite.
Ability to analyze sales data, forecast demand, and develop pricing strategies to maximize profitability.

**Personal and Interpersonal Skills**:
Passion for wine and dedication to providing an exceptional dining experience.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with members, guests, and staff.
Strong leadership and team-building skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate others.
Attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards of quality and service.
Professional demeanor and appearance, with a friendly and approachable attitude.