Head Sommelier

Hawksmoor; Greater London; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tronc paid

Free team meals

50% off food

Income protection

Volunteer days

Early wage access

Referral bonuses

Travel discounts

Welfare budget

Training and progression

Job summary

Hawksmoor is seeking an experienced Sommelier to join our award-winning wine team in London. You will curate memorable experiences for guests through knowledge, passion and warmth, bringing the wine list to life and supporting service excellence.

You will train and mentor front-of-house staff, maintain cellar standards, and contribute to the wine programme and seasonal selections. A strong wine background and WSET qualifications are essential.

Qualifications

• Must have strong wine knowledge and guest-focused service experience.
• WSET Level 2 required; Level 3 preferred as a bonus.
• Calm, organised and professional under pressure; a team player.

Responsibilities

• Deliver exceptional wine service and pairings across the restaurant floor.
• Guide guests through the wine list with enthusiasm and hospitality.
• Support the Wine Manager in maintaining and developing the wine programme.
• Train FOH staff in wine service, tastings and product knowledge.
• Maintain stock control, cellar organisation and accurate records.
• Contribute to menu development and seasonal selections.

Skills

Wine knowledge

Customer service

Communication

Team player

Education

WSET Level 2

WSET Level 3 (bonus)

Job description

Since 2006, Hawksmoor has been the UK’s home of ethically sourced, grass-fed beef, cooked over charcoal and paired with award-winning wines and cocktails. We’re proud to be a certified B Corp, one of the most sustainable restaurant groups in the industry, and to have been recognised as one of the Best Companies to work for year after year.

As a Sommelier, you’ll be part of Hawksmoor’s award-winning wine team — curating memorable experiences for our guests through your knowledge, passion and warmth. You’ll bring the wine list to life, supporting the restaurant team with training, service and recommendations, while upholding Hawksmoor’s standards of hospitality and excellence.

What You’ll Do

• Deliver exceptional wine service and pairings across the restaurant floor
• Guide guests through the wine list with enthusiasm, knowledge and genuine hospitality
• Support the Wine Manager in maintaining and developing the wine programme
• Train and mentor FOH staff in wine service, tastings and product knowledge
• Maintain stock control, cellar organisation and accurate records
• Contribute to menu development and seasonal selections

Who You Are

• Experienced as a Sommelier or Senior Waiter with strong wine knowledge
• Confident, engaging and passionate about helping guests discover new wines
• Qualified to WSET Level 2 (or equivalent experience), with Level 3 a bonus
• Calm, organised and professional under pressure
• A team player who embodies Hawksmoor’s values and culture

Our Values

Welcome Everyone - we are warm, welcoming and help everyone feel comfortable being themselves

Work Hard and Be Nice to People - we balance hard work and ambition with integrity, kindness and fun

Hit Hawksmoor Standards - we all take accountability for the part we play

Keep Evolving - we continue to develop through listening, learning, feedback and new ideas

Benefits

• Tronc paid for every hour you work, including holidays and breaks
• Free team meals on shift
• 50% off food at Hawksmoor for you and your loved ones
• Income protection and death in service cover
• Paid annual volunteer days
• Stream early wage access and financial wellbeing tools
• Referral bonuses from day one
• Exclusive savings on travel, shopping and experiences
• Restaurant welfare budget for snacks, drinks and support
• Full training and development with clear progression opportunities

We’re building a team that reflects the richness and diversity of the communities we serve. At Hawksmoor, we welcome everyone and believe in creating a workplace where individuality is celebrated, kindness is key and high standards are met together. If this role excites you but you don’t meet every requirement, please apply anyway. You might be exactly who we’re looking for.