Assistant Head Sommelier - New Opening - MANA

Ma / Na; Greater London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An upscale dining establishment in London is seeking an Assistant Head Sommelier to support an exceptional beverage programme that harmonizes wine, sake, and Japanese cuisine. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in fine dining, along with a strong understanding of international wine regions and a passion for Japanese culture. Responsibilities include curating a balanced beverage list, training staff, and contributing to a world-class guest experience. Competitive compensation and professional development opportunities are offered.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Professional development

Staff meals

Wellness initiatives

Qualifications

• Experience in a fine dining or high-end environment.
• Ability to tell stories through wine and beverage selections.
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.

Responsibilities

• Support wine and sake programme sourcing and selection.
• Assist in curating a balanced beverage list.
• Train front-of-house teams on beverage offerings.
• Collaborate on food and drink pairings.

Skills

Proven experience as a Sommelier

Strong understanding of international wine regions

Knowledge of sake with WSET Sake Level 3

Excellent guest communication

Organised and motivated approach

Passion for Japanese cuisine

Education

WSET Sake Level 3

Job description

Assistant Head Sommelier - New Opening - MANA*

Assistant Head Sommelier - MA / NA (Opening January 2026)*

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.