Assistant Head Sommelier

Sale e Pepe Mare; City of Westminster; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A premier dining establishment in London seeks an Assistant Head Sommelier to deliver exceptional wine service and shape a standout wine programme. Candidates should have proven experience in high-volume restaurants and advanced wine knowledge, ideally WSET Level 3 or higher. Responsibilities include managing the wine list, leading wine service, and training the team. This role promises a vibrant work environment and great career development opportunities within an evolving hospitality group.

Benefits

Private medical insurance

Paid sick leave

Study support scheme

Complimentary meals while on duty

50% staff discount

Excellent career development opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Senior Sommelier or Assistant Head Sommelier in a premium, high‑volume restaurant.
• Strong understanding of food and wine pairings, ideally with Mediterranean/Italian cuisine.
• Professional appearance and impeccable presentation standards.

Responsibilities

• Support the management of the wine list, cellar, and supplier relationships.
• Deliver outstanding wine service, offering knowledgeable and engaging recommendations to guests.
• Maintain stock control, cellar organisation, and accurate record keeping.

Skills

Advanced wine knowledge

Communication skills

Leadership qualities

Organisation skills

Education

WSET Level 3 or Diploma

Job description

Assistant Head Sommelier – Sale e Pepe Mare at The Langham, London

Set to open within The Langham, London, this marks a new chapter in the storied legacy of Sale e Pepe, the iconic Knightsbridge restaurant that has defined Italian dining in the capital since 1974 — a fitting partnership that sees two London icons come together under one roof.

Sale e Pepe Mare will capture the sun‑soaked energy, vibrant dishes, and unmistakable sense of la dolce vita. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the restaurant celebrates the finest seafood while offering a sophisticated dining and bar experience inspired by the Mediterranean coast.

We are seeking a talented, ambitious, and guest‑focused Assistant Head Sommelier to join our opening team and help shape a standout wine programme for Sale e Pepe Mare. Supporting the Head Sommelier, you will deliver refined, engaging wine service and ensure every guest enjoys a memorable and elevated experience in line with the spirit of Italian hospitality.

About the Role

The Assistant Head Sommelier is a key member of the restaurant’s beverage team, responsible for supporting the Head Sommelier in curating, managing, and delivering an exceptional wine offering. You will help oversee the wine list and cellar, lead wine service on the floor, and act as a point of reference for both guests and the wider team.

Working closely with the Head Sommelier, management, and kitchen team, you will:

• Support the management of the wine list, cellar, and supplier relationships
• Deliver outstanding wine service, offering knowledgeable and engaging recommendations to guests
• Lead the wine service on the floor, ensuring smooth coordination with the restaurant team
• Assist in training and mentoring the sommelier and service teams, raising wine knowledge and confidence
• Contribute to food and wine pairing development in collaboration with the kitchen
• Maintain stock control, cellar organisation, and accurate record keeping
• Uphold and promote the restaurant’s service standards, presentation, and guest‑first culture

About Us

Thesleff Group is a growing hospitality group with a collection of standout venues including Los Mochis, Sale e Pepe, Viajante87, Juno Omakase, and Luna Omakase. We are known for combining innovative food, stylish design, and genuine hospitality.

At Sale e Pepe Mare, we honour the heritage of a London classic while embracing a new era of coastal Italian dining. With our home at The Langham, we bring together sophistication, tradition, and the spirited warmth of Mediterranean hospitality. If you are passionate about wine, food, and delivering an elevated guest experience, join our dynamic, dedicated opening team and be part of something truly special.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Senior Sommelier or Assistant Head Sommelier in a premium, high‑volume restaurant
• Advanced wine knowledge, ideally WSET Level 3 or Diploma (or equivalent)
• Strong understanding of food and wine pairings, ideally with Mediterranean/Italian cuisine
• Leadership qualities with the ability to inspire, support, and develop colleagues
• Highly organised with excellent cellar management and stock control skills
• Strong communication skills, able to share technical knowledge with warmth and clarity
• Professional appearance and impeccable presentation standards
• A guest‑first mindset and genuine passion for hospitality
• Proof of right to work / pre‑settled or settled status in the UK

Benefits Include

• Private medical insurance
• Paid sick leave
• Study support scheme
• Complimentary meals while on duty
• 50% staff discount when dining with family and friends
• People‑focused, supportive workplace culture
• Excellent career development opportunities across the expanding Thesleff Group

If you are a dedicated and enthusiastic wine professional with a passion for hospitality and refined service, we invite you to apply for the position of Assistant Head Sommelier at Sale e Pepe Mare.

Thesleff Group is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion within the workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other legally protected status.