Head Sommelier

RB Holdings; City Of London; On-site; GBP 41,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Gym membership discount

Private medical insurance

Dental insurance

Well-being days

Job summary

RB Holdings, a growing luxury hospitality group, seeks a Head Sommelier for its Upper Floor Restaurant team at 5 Hertford Street in London. The role focuses on delivering an exceptional wine experience, leading the club's wine programme, and driving sales through informed recommendations.

Ideal candidates will have prior sommelier or head sommelier experience in fast-paced luxury settings, outstanding communication, and a passion for discerning service.

Qualifications

• Must have previous experience as a sommelier or head sommelier.
• Strong wine knowledge with ability to recommend and upsell.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Deliver exceptional wine experience for members and guests with confident recommendations.
• Lead and develop the club's wine programme, manage wine list and stock.
• Train staff in wine service and tasting notes.
• Oversee wine presentation, cellar operations, and billing accuracy.

Skills

Wine knowledge

Upselling

Customer service

Team leadership

Job description

RB Holdings is a growing hospitality group shaping some of the most distinctive private members' clubs and food businesses in London and New York. Founded by Robin Birley, our businesses are built on discretion, craftsmanship, and deeply personal service - delivered by teams who take pride in doing things properly. Our London portfolio includes 5 Hertford Street, Oswald's, and Birley Bakery and Chocolate Shop in Chelsea. In 2025, we expanded internationally with the opening of Maxime's, alongside a new Birley Bakery in New York City.

We are currently seeking a Head Sommelier to join our Upper Floor Restaurant team at 5 Hertford Street.

Why work with us as a Head Sommelier?

• Salary of up to £45,000.00 per annum + discretionary service33 days holiday per year (including bank holidays)
• Discounted gym membership with GymFlex
• Monthly well-being days with our in-house Masseuse, Reflexologist, and Chiropodist
• Private medical + dental insurance with BUPA
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Online retail discounts
• Workplace nursery scheme
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Eyecare & glasses vouchers
• Recommend a friend bonus of £1,000
• Freshly prepared meals whilst on duty
• And more!

Working Hours:

• Shifts are between Monday - Saturday
• Shift times vary on a rota basis and can fall between 11:00am and 1:00am
• The club is closed on Sundays, Bank Holidays and throughout Christmas each year.

What you will do:

• Deliver an exceptional wine experience for members and guests, providing expert recommendations and pairing advice with confidence and personality.
• Lead and develop the club's wine programme, including wine list management, stock control, and staff wine training.
• Drive wine sales through knowledgeable upselling, ensuring guests receive tailored recommendations to enhance their dining experience.
• Maintain the highest service standards, overseeing wine presentation, cellar operations, and accurate billing while supporting the wider restaurant team.

What are we looking for:

• Previous experience as a Sommelier or Head Sommelier within a fast-paced hospitality, luxury dining, or private members' club environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the confidence to engage with guests and deliver exceptional service.
• Strong wine knowledge, with the ability to make informed recommendations, upsell effectively, and enhance the guest experience.
• Highly organised and detail-oriented, with a professional, calm approach and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.