Wine Director

Job Details:
We are looking for an experienced and enthusiastic wine director to join King. This full-time salaried position is focused on the wine program at King in all its facets: the integrity of the list, education and mentorship of the wine team, financial health and inventory, and finally the daily administration of the program to ensure that service is smooth and accurate. 

Program Management & Inventory

• Manage King's wine list including wine by the glass as well as NA wine offerings.
• Maintain an accurate and up-to-date inventory, ensuring proper storage, rotation, and cleanliness of all wine areas
• Receive and process all wine deliveries, ensuring accuracy, proper cataloging, and organization
• Monitor purchasing, pricing, and product selection in partnership with management and within weekly budget
• Maintain and update the wine list and Toast POS in a timely and accurate manner
• Conduct regular inventory counts and ensure alignment with financial targets
• Partner with the kitchen to stay aligned on menu changes, allergies, and pairing opportunities

Service & Floor Leadership

• Lead the wine program during service, setting the tone for professionalism, pace, and hospitality, including leading wine service
• Guide the team and lead guest interaction regarding wine during service
• Establish and uphold wine service standards across the team
• Coach, mentor, and hold team members accountable in real time
• Act as a visible leader on the floor, setting the example for execution and guest engagement
• Maintain and update guest preferences and notes in Resy
• Support planning and execution of special events, collaborations, and activations

Training & Team Development

• Communicate wine updates clearly and consistently to the team
• Develop and maintain wine training materials in collaboration with the management team
• Lead ongoing education through pre-shifts, tastings, and structured training sessions
• Create opportunities for team engagement through knowledge checks and quizzes
• Support the development of our wine team

Financial Oversight & Performance

• Track and report on wine sales, trends, and cost percentages
• Identify opportunities to improve sales, profitability, and overall program performance
• Maintain strong awareness of cost control while preserving quality and integrity of the program

Ownership & Accountability

• Serve as a keyholder, responsible for opening and closing procedures and overall facility security
• Ensure all beverage and operational standards are upheld consistently
• Take ownership of the performance and evolution of the wine program

Qualifications:

• Previous experience in wine service, including wine training and certification
• Proven experience in restaurant management within a fast-paced, high-standard environment
• A genuine passion for food, beverage, hospitality, especially fine dining and wine
• Interest in French and Italian food and beverage. Familiarity is a plus but not required
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously
• High attention to detail, with a natural sense of hospitality and presence on the floor
• Adaptable, proactive, and comfortable working in a dynamic and evolving environment
• Strong understanding of NYC Department of Health standards, with the ability to maintain and uphold all food safety and sanitation practices
• Required certifications, including food handler’s certification
• Proficiency in Google Workspace

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 45lbs if necessary
• Safely and effectively use all necessary tools and equipment
• Stand and walk for an entire shift, including moving safely through all areas of the restaurant

King is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, gender (including gender identity or expression), pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual orientation, marital status, domestic violence, sexual violence or stalking victim status, ancestry, national origin, alienage or citizenship, age, disability, military or veteran status, genetic information or predisposing genetic characteristic, or other protected status.

WSET Level 3 or higher preferred.

Degree in Hospitality, Culinary Management, or similar subject preferred.