Head Sommelier (Clare)
Co. Clare, Full Time
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee the full wine operation including list development, purchasing, stock management, and supplier relationships.
- Maintain accurate stock levels, ensure proper rotation, and uphold cleanliness, security, and organisation of cellars.
- Work closely with the Purchasing Department to ensure timely, cost-effective orders for daily service and special events.
Guest Experience & Service Delivery
- Deliver expert wine service across all outlets with a focus on bespoke pairings and guest engagement.
- Enhance revenue through intelligent upselling of wines, champagnes, aperitifs, and digestifs.
- Drive guest satisfaction by offering an elevated experience in line with luxury hotel standards.
Sales, Strategy & Innovation
- Continuously evaluate the wine list to keep it exciting, balanced, and in line with Dromoland’s culinary vision.
- Monitor trends and work with Chefs and F&B teams to create dynamic wine and beverage pairings.
- Ensure all pre-service areas (e.g. chilled wine, polished glasses) are prepared to the highest standards before service or functions.
Leadership & Team Development
- Lead, mentor, and motivate the sommelier and wider service team to consistently deliver excellent standards.
- Conduct regular performance reviews, workplace assessments, and team training sessions.
- Foster a team culture focused on service excellence, product knowledge, and attention to detail.
Operational Excellence
- Manage cellar organisation and adhere to SOP’s around requisitions, procurement, stock control, and loss prevention.
- Ensure compliance with all health, hygiene, and safety regulations in beverage storage and service areas.
- Complete accurate reporting and maintain documentation using systems like Procure Wizard.
The Ideal Candidate
- Proven experience as a Head Sommelier in a luxury, fine-dining, or five-star hospitality environment.
- Strong understanding of global wine regions, varietals, vintages, and food pairings.
- Excellent communication and guest service skills, with a warm, confident approach.
- A hands-on leader who inspires and develops others.
- Highly organised, commercially aware, and focused on continuous improvement.
- Experience with stock control systems such as Procure Wizard is advantageous.
- Relevant WSET qualifications or equivalent preferred.
Benefits:
- Competitive salary (commensurate with experience).
- Pension Scheme.
- Sick Pay Scheme.
- Free Leisure Centre Access.
- Free meals whilst on duty.
- Free Parking On Site.
- Wellness / wellbeing programmes
- Opportunities for ongoing training and development.
Eligibility to Work
- Please note: Applicants must have the right to live and work in Ireland without restriction.
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