Head Sommelier & Wine Director

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off

International wine travel & education

Performance bonus

Job summary

Placements24 is partnering with a renowned fine-dining restaurant in Pretoria to recruit a Head Sommelier & Wine Director. You will curate a world-class wine list, lead the sommelier team, manage cellar operations, and partner with the kitchen to perfect pairings.

The ideal candidate holds Advanced Sommelier certification, 6+ years as a sommelier with 3+ in a head role, and a track record of cost control, training, and memorable guest experiences in a high-end setting.

Qualifications

• Advanced Sommelier certification or equivalent.
• 6+ years as a sommelier, with 3+ years in a head role.
• Extensive knowledge of global wine regions, varietals, vintages.
• Proven wine list creation and cost control.
• Strong leadership and staff training abilities.
• Excellent communication and guest education skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain a diverse wine list reflecting regions and trends.
• Lead and train the sommelier team to deliver exceptional service.
• Conduct regular wine tastings for staff.
• Manage wine inventory, purchasing, receiving and cellar operations.
• Control costs and optimize profitability through pricing and turnover.
• Provide expert wine recommendations and pairings to guests.
• Collaborate with Executive Chef on food and wine integration.
• Organize wine-focused events, tastings and education sessions.

Skills

Wine knowledge

Leadership

Training

Guest education

Communication

Education

Advanced Sommelier certification

Tools

Wine inventory software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly esteemed fine-dining restaurant celebrated for its exceptional wine program in Pretoria, Gauteng , is actively seeking a passionate and knowledgeable Head Sommelier & Wine Director. This executive position will be responsible for curating, managing, and presenting an outstanding wine list that complements the restaurant's sophisticated cuisine and caters to discerning palates. The ideal candidate will possess an encyclopedic knowledge of global wines, impeccable tasting skills, and a talent for creating memorable guest experiences. You will lead the sommelier team, manage wine inventory, and contribute significantly to the restaurant's reputation for excellence in Pretoria . This role demands a blend of oenological expertise, strong leadership, and astute business acumen.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and meticulously maintain a diverse and compelling wine list, reflecting both classic regions and emerging trends.
• Lead and train the sommelier team, ensuring exceptional service standards and wine knowledge.
• Conduct regular wine tastings for the sommelier team and relevant staff.
• Manage all aspects of wine inventory, including purchasing, receiving, storage, and cellar management.
• Control wine costs and maximize profitability through strategic pricing and effective inventory turnover.
• Provide expert wine recommendations and pairings to guests, enhancing their dining experience.
• Collaborate with the Executive Chef to ensure seamless integration between food and wine offerings.
• Organize and host wine-focused events, tastings, and educational sessions.
• Stay abreast of global wine industry developments, new vintages, and producers.
• Ensure compliance with all licensing and responsible service of alcohol regulations.

Requirements

• Advanced Sommelier certification (e.g., Court of Master Sommeliers Advanced Sommelier or equivalent) is highly preferred.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience as a Sommelier, with at least 3 years in a Head Sommelier or Wine Director role.
• Extensive knowledge of global wine regions, varietals, vintages, and food and wine pairings.
• Proven experience in wine list creation, cellar management, and cost control.
• Exceptional leadership, training, and interpersonal skills.
• A refined palate and excellent sensory evaluation abilities.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to engage and educate guests and staff.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, in Pretoria, Gauteng .
• Experience with wine inventory management software.
• Passion for wine and dedication to providing an exceptional guest experience.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive salary package, along with a performance bonus and extensive benefits including health insurance, paid time off, and opportunities for international wine travel and education. This is a career-defining opportunity to lead the wine program at one of Pretoria 's most celebrated culinary establishments.