Lead Wine Ambassador: Story-Driven Pairings & Team Training

Malmaison Hotels; Henley-on-Thames; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Staff Room Rates

Friends and Family Discounts

35% dining discount

Fully funded Apprenticeship programmes

Cycle to work scheme

Healthcare Cash Plans

Job summary

Malmaison Hotels in Henley-on-Thames is seeking a Head Wine Ambassador to place wine at the heart of the guest journey, delivering unpretentious excellence with storytelling. You will train FOH staff to WSET Level 2/3, lead signature experiences, manage cellar stock, and collaborate with suppliers to grow wine revenue while supporting sustainability goals.

You will design wine programs, host tastings, and maintain luxury brand standards across Bistro, bar, and private dining rooms.

Qualifications

• Premium F&B experience in a busy hospitality setting.
• Training FOH staff to wine standards and service excellence.
• Strong knowledge of wine regions, styles and pairing concepts.

Responsibilities

• Direct wine service during peak hours in the Bistro, bar, and private dining rooms.
• Recommend food-and-wine pairings to drive upsells and premium wine flights.
• Own signature wine experiences and host tastings for guests.
• Onboard and mentor FOH staff toward WSET certifications.
• Manage daily wine briefings and staff training sessions.
• Oversee cellar rotation, inventory PAR levels, and stock usage.
• Ensure wine lists and branding align with luxury guidelines.
• Collaborate with suppliers and partners for events and audits.
• Support sustainability targets and local wine activations.

Skills

Wine knowledge

Storytelling

Guest service

Staff training

Stock control

Upselling techniques

Budget awareness

Collaborative

Education

WSET Level 3

WSET Level 2 with commitment to Level 3

Tools

POS systems

Inventory management

Job description

Malmaison Hotels in Henley-on-Thames is seeking a Head Wine Ambassador to place wine at the heart of the guest journey, delivering unpretentious excellence with storytelling. You will train FOH staff to WSET Level 2/3, lead signature experiences, manage cellar stock, and collaborate with suppliers to grow wine revenue while supporting sustainability goals.

You will design wine programs, host tastings, and maintain luxury brand standards across Bistro, bar, and private dining rooms.