Assistant Head Sommelier

Sale E Pepe; City of Westminster; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious seafood restaurant in the City of Westminster is seeking an experienced Assistant Head Sommelier to join their opening team. This role involves managing the wine list and cellar, delivering outstanding wine service, and mentoring staff. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in wine, a passion for hospitality, and the ability to elevate guest experiences. The restaurant celebrates Mediterranean cuisine and promotes a supportive work culture.

Benefits

Private medical insurance

Paid sick leave

Complimentary meals while on duty

50% staff discount when dining with family and friends

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 and cellar.
• Deliver knowledgeable and engaging wine service to guests.
• Assist in training and mentoring the sommelier and service teams.

Skills

Advanced wine knowledge

Leadership qualities

Strong communication skills

High organization skills

Guest-first mindset

Education

WSET Level 3 or Diploma (or equivalent)

Job description

Assistant Head Sommelier – Sale e Pepe Mare

The Langham, London is opening Sale e Pepe Mare, a new chapter in the legacy of the iconic Knightsbridge restaurant. The restaurant will serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, celebrating the finest seafood and offering a sophisticated dining and bar experience inspired by the Mediterranean coast.

Responsibilities

• 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

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.

Qualifications

• 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

About Thesleff Group

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.

Benefits

• 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