Head Sommelier

The Head Sommelier is responsible for leading and managing the restaurant’s wine program, ensuring an exceptional guest experience through expert wine pairings, menu integration, and staff training. This role requires deep industry knowledge, strong leadership skills, and the ability to curate a world-class wine list that aligns with Faena’s luxury hospitality standards. This full-time position has an annual salary of $90,000. Duties and Responsibilities Curate and manage the restaurant’s wine list, ensuring a balance of global selections and unique offerings. Train servers and staff in wine knowledge, pairing techniques, and service etiquette. Engage with guests to provide expert recommendations and personalized wine experiences. Oversee inventory management, cellar organization, and supplier relationships. Collaborate with the culinary team to create seamless food and wine pairings. Conduct wine tastings, training programs, and VIP wine events. Monitor wine sales trends and optimize selections to drive revenue. Ensure full compliance with alcohol service regulations and responsible beverage programs. Qualifications Certified Sommelier designation required (Court of Master Sommeliers, WSET Level 3, or equivalent). Minimum 3-5 years of experience as a Sommelier in a fine dining or luxury hospitality setting. Proficiency in wine list management, including inventory control and cost analysis. Strong understanding of classic and modern wine pairing techniques. Strong relationships with wine producers and distributors to secure exclusive allocations. Experience with high-profile clientele and VIP guest services preferred. Familiarity with POS and reservation systems to track wine sales and guest preferences. Knowledge of spirits, aperitifs, and non-alcoholic beverage pairings is a plus. Familiarity with Purchasing Systems (Birchstreet) Fluency in English required; additional languages, particularly French, Italian, or Spanish, are highly desirable. Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays. Skills Deep knowledge of Old and New World wines, varietals, and regions. Ability to pair wines with complex dishes and guest preferences. Strong storytelling skills to enhance the guest wine experience. Advanced communication and engagement skills. Meticulous attention to detail in wine service and storage. Strong multitasking ability in a high-energy, luxury dining setting. Ability to educate and train service staff on wine knowledge and sales techniques. Strategic pricing, cost control, and inventory management expertise. Physical Demand and Work Environment Endure various physical movements throughout the work areas Ability to move safely in uneven terrain or in confined spaces Remain active, constantly moving, or prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer throughout work shift Medium Work: Exerting up to 40 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of constantly moving objects, may occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds #J-18808-Ljbffr Faena New York