Head Sommelier

The Fife Arms - Hotel; Ballater; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

The Fife Arms Hotel in the Cairngorms National Park is seeking a Head Sommelier to lead its exceptional wine program and mentor a dedicated team. As an integral part of a 5-star establishment, this role emphasizes outstanding wine knowledge, leadership, and a passion for service in a breathtaking Scottish setting.

Benefits

30 days holiday

Free annual guest experience

Enhanced pension scheme

Generous discounts across properties

Career development opportunities

Qualifications

• Outstanding knowledge and passion for wines.
• Experience in a similar role in luxury hotels.
• Ability to train and mentor team members.

Responsibilities

• Ensure wine offerings are world-class by sourcing and maintaining collections.
• Lead and train the team, ensuring high service standards.
• Exceed guest expectations, ensuring engagement and satisfaction.

Skills

Knowledge of wines

Leadership

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Calm under pressure

Education

WSET Level 3 diploma

Job description

Due to an internal transfer, we're currently looking for a Head Sommelier to become part of our passionate and dedicated team.

Located in the picturesque village of Braemar, in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, the Fife Arms is a 2 MICHELIN Keys awarded boutique 5-star hotel. We have been named Aberdeen City & Shire Employer of the Year and recognized in the Staff Matter category at the Northern Star Business Awards, reflecting our commitment to a supportive and rewarding workplace.

Our Wine Cellar features over 50 wines available by the glass and an extensive list of over 400 bottles, focusing on classics and lesser-known regions, with wines crafted using viticulturally conscious practices. Our team knows the collection inside out and guides guests through it.

As Head Sommelier, you will ensure our wine offerings are world-class by sourcing, comparing, discussing, and tasting wines, maintaining our exceptional collection. You are a leader with strong organizational skills, passionate about training and mentoring your team, and dedicated to exceeding guest expectations to ensure they leave feeling enriched and engaged.

The team values creative flair, passion for wine and service, and a desire to learn and grow.

Our successful Head Sommelier will:

• Have outstanding knowledge and passion for wines and be established in a similar role.
• Possess WSET Level 3 diploma or equivalent qualification (desirable).
• Experience with LQA or Forbes service standards for luxury hotels.
• Be confident, curious, engaging, and possess excellent people skills.
• Be a strong team player with great communication skills, well-organized, punctual, and detail-oriented.
• Remain calm under pressure, work efficiently in busy environments, and prioritize effectively.

What’s in it for you?

• Support in finding your home in the Scottish Highlands.
• 30 days holiday.
• Free annual guest experience for you and a plus one.
• Enhanced pension scheme.
• Generous Artfarm-wide discounts across properties in Somerset, Scottish Highlands, London, Los Angeles, Washington DC, and Menorca.
• Amazing sports and social events.
• Life Assurance.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Career development opportunities tailored to your aspirations and goals.

About Artfarm and The Fife Arms Hotel

Artfarm is a unique independent hospitality company founded by Iwan and Manuela Wirth, known for developing distinctive sites including the award-winning Fife Arms Hotel in Braemar, and other renowned restaurants and establishments across the UK and abroad. Artfarm integrates art, community, education, people, and place.

The hotel in Braemar offers 46 beautifully appointed bedrooms, each inspired by local history, along with the Albamhor Spa and various event spaces. Dining includes the Clunie Dining Room, The Flying Stag Pub, Bertie’s Whisky Bar, Elsa’s Art Deco Cocktail Bar, and a relaxed Drawing Room, all celebrating local ingredients and culinary excellence.