Lead Sommelier & Wine Program Director – London

Kinora Group; Greater London; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Staff meals

Dining discounts

WSET training support

Job summary

Kinora Group seeks a Head Sommelier for a prestigious London restaurant to lead the wine programme and elevate guest experience. You will own the cellar, curate a world‑class wine list, and mentor a talented sommelier team in a high‑end dining setting.

Responsibilities include developing the wine list, managing procurement and stock, hosting tastings, and maintaining vendor relationships while ensuring cost control and exemplary guest service. London-based, on-site role.

Qualifications

• Right to work in the UK.

Responsibilities

• Curate, develop, and continually evolve the wine list to reflect the concept, cuisine, and guest expectations.
• Manage the wine cellar, including procurement, stock control, storage conditions, and supplier relationships.
• Lead, train, and mentor the sommelier and front-of-house wine service team.
• Deliver exceptional tableside service, including wine recommendations and food pairings.
• Host wine tastings and staff training sessions to build team knowledge and confidence.
• Monitor wine costs, margins, and inventory to support commercial targets.
• Build and maintain relationships with growers, importers, and distributors.
• Stay current on wine trends, regions, and emerging producers.
• Ensure compliance with licensing, health & safety, and stock management standards.

Skills

Leadership

Wine knowledge

Guest-facing communication

Budgeting & margins

Supplier negotiations

Hospitality passion

Education

WSET Level 3 or CMS qualification

Job description

Kinora Group seeks a Head Sommelier for a prestigious London restaurant to lead the wine programme and elevate guest experience. You will own the cellar, curate a world‑class wine list, and mentor a talented sommelier team in a high‑end dining setting.

Responsibilities include developing the wine list, managing procurement and stock, hosting tastings, and maintaining vendor relationships while ensuring cost control and exemplary guest service. London-based, on-site role.