One&Only The Palm Dubaï - 101 Head Sommelier - (M/W)

Yannick Alléno Group; Dubai; On-site; AED 360,000 - 540,000; Full time

Job summary

Yannick Alléno Group in Dubai is seeking a Head Sommelier to lead wine strategy and wine service at our luxury restaurant. You will manage the cellar, craft pairings, train staff, and develop events that elevate the dining experience.

You will collaborate with culinary and management teams to maintain the highest standards of hospitality, compliance, and guest satisfaction in a renowned French gastronomy setting.

Qualifications

• Creativity
• 3–5 years of experience in an equivalent position
• Excellent knowledge of food hygiene and safety regulations
• Strong managerial skills to inspire and develop staff
• Excellent presentation
• Certified sommelier (WSET, CMS, or equivalent) preferable
• Extensive knowledge of global wines and service techniques
• Strong English communication and customer-service focus
• Ability to perform under pressure in a luxury environment
• Fluency in English required; French or other languages advantageous

Responsibilities

• Oversee wine cellar management, purchasing, and inventory.
• Advise guests on wine selections and curate pairings.
• Train service staff on wine service and menu wines.
• Develop innovative wine programs and host tastings.
• Ensure compliance with hygiene and safety standards.

Skills

Wine knowledge

Guest service

Team leadership

Wine pairing

Communication

Education

Sommelier certification

Job description

Our kitchen, front-of-house and support teams are united by a shared commitment to proudly representing the excellence of Yannick Alléno's creative French cuisine.

Recognised as one of the world's greatest chefs, Yannick Alléno has devoted his life to his passion for gastronomy. He champions a bold and authentic vision of French cuisine, deeply rooted in its heritage while constantly pushing the boundaries of culinary innovation.

At every stage of the employee journey—from sourcing and recruitment to training, compensation, career development and internal mobility—we are committed to fostering equality, diversity and mutual respect across all our teams within the Yannick Alléno Group.

If you share our passion for gastronomy and identify with our core values—Creativity & Progress, Respect & Fairness, Commitment & Responsibility—

Mission

Position Overview:
As Head Sommelier, you will be responsible for all aspects related to the management of wines and beverages at the restaurant. You will play a pivotal role in the dining experience, ensuring impeccable service while offering innovative food and wine pairings. Working closely with the culinary team and restaurant management, you will craft a wine list that complements the excellence of our cuisine.

Key Responsibilities:

Wine Cellar Management: Oversee the selection, purchasing, and inventory of wines, spirits, and other beverages.

Customer Service: Advise guests on wine selections, curate personalized food and wine pairings, and deliver memorable tasting experiences.

Team Training: Educate the service staff on wine service techniques, pairing suggestions, and the characteristics of wines on the menu.

Innovation and Development: Propose creative ideas to enhance the wine offering and organize wine-related events (tastings, themed nights).

Compliance: Ensure compliance with hygiene and safety standards in the handling and serving of beverages.

Profile

Creativity;

3-5 years experience in an equivalent position;

Excellent knowledge of food hygiene and safety regulations;

Good managerial skills : able to inspire, motivate and develop employees;

Good presentation;

Certified sommelier (WSET, Court of Master Sommeliers, or equivalent) is preferable.

Extensive knowledge of global wines, wine service techniques, and current trends in oenology.

Excellent communication skills and a strong sense of customer service.

Ability to perform under pressure in a luxury environment while maintaining high standards of quality.

Fluency in English is required; proficiency in French or other languages is an advantage.