Head Sommelier

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 650,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein is seeking a Head Sommelier to curate and lead the wine program in a fine-dining setting. You will manage cellar operations, guest wine selections, and staff education to elevate the dining experience.

The role requires advanced sommelier credentials, deep knowledge of global wines, inventory controls, and the ability to train junior staff. Evening and weekend shifts are included as the restaurant pursues excellence.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 4 years of experience as a Sommelier, with a proven track record in a high-end restaurant setting.
• Advanced Sommelier certification (e.g., Court of Master Sommeliers, WSET Level 3 or higher) is highly preferred.
• Extensive knowledge of global wine regions, grape varietals, vintages, and food-pairing principles.
• Excellent sensory evaluation skills and an exceptional palate.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage guests effectively.
• Experience in inventory management, purchasing, and cost control.
• Ability to manage a cellar efficiently and maintain optimal conditions.
• Passion for wine and a commitment to providing outstanding guest service.
• Flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends, is required.
• A team-oriented mindset and the ability to train and mentor junior staff.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain a diverse and well-curated wine list that complements the restaurant's menu and appeals to a discerning clientele.
• Manage the wine cellar, including inventory, stock rotation, purchasing, and cost control.
• Provide exceptional wine service to guests, offering expert recommendations and pairings.
• Conduct regular wine tastings and staff training sessions to enhance the team's wine knowledge.
• Build relationships with wine producers, distributors, and suppliers to source high-quality and unique wines.
• Ensure proper storage and handling of all wines to maintain optimal quality.
• Stay current with wine trends, regions, and vintages, continuously updating the wine list.
• Manage wine-related expenses and contribute to the profitability of the beverage program.
• Maintain immaculate presentation of the wine cellar and service areas.
• Assist in the development of special wine-pairing dinners and events.

Skills

Wine knowledge

Staff training

Guest engagement

Sensory evaluation

Inventory control

Cost control

Cellar management

Team leadership

Communication

Wine pairing

Education

Advanced Sommelier certification (CMS/WSET3+)

Job description

About the Role Our client, an acclaimed fine-dining restaurant in **Bloemfontein**, is searching for an exceptional Head Sommelier to curate and manage its extensive wine program. This role is critical to the dining experience, requiring a deep knowledge of global wines, impeccable palate, and the ability to guide guests in their selection. The Head Sommelier will be responsible for all aspects of wine service, cellar management, and wine education for staff. This is a unique opportunity for a passionate wine professional to contribute to the reputation of one of **Bloemfontein**'s most sophisticated culinary destinations.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain a diverse and well-curated wine list that complements the restaurant's menu and appeals to a discerning clientele.
• Manage the wine cellar, including inventory, stock rotation, purchasing, and cost control.
• Provide exceptional wine service to guests, offering expert recommendations and pairings.
• Conduct regular wine tastings and staff training sessions to enhance the team's wine knowledge.
• Build relationships with wine producers, distributors, and suppliers to source high-quality and unique wines.
• Ensure proper storage and handling of all wines to maintain optimal quality.
• Stay current with wine trends, regions, and vintages, continuously updating the wine list.
• Manage wine-related expenses and contribute to the profitability of the beverage program.
• Maintain immaculate presentation of the wine cellar and service areas.
• Assist in the development of special wine-pairing dinners and events.

Requirements

• Minimum of 4 years of experience as a Sommelier, with a proven track record in a high-end restaurant setting.
• Advanced Sommelier certification (e.g., Court of Master Sommeliers, WSET Level 3 or higher) is highly preferred.
• Extensive knowledge of global wine regions, grape varietals, vintages, and food-pairing principles.
• Excellent sensory evaluation skills and an exceptional palate.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage guests effectively.
• Experience in inventory management, purchasing, and cost control.
• Ability to manage a cellar efficiently and maintain optimal conditions.
• Passion for wine and a commitment to providing outstanding guest service.
• Flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends, is required.
• A team-oriented mindset and the ability to train and mentor junior staff.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based gratuities, and the opportunity to work with a world-class wine collection.

• Benefits include medical aid and a retirement fund.