Company Description
The Savoy is one of the world’s most iconic hotels. We are the original British luxury hotel, opened in 1889, and have a reputation for outstanding service excellence. We blend our rich history with innovation, and have played host to royalty, world leaders, and legends of the stage and screen. Today, we pride ourselves on creating special memories for our guests by delivering the very best in five‑star luxury hospitality. Our award‑winning, colleague‑centric culture truly differentiates us in the luxury hospitality marketplace. We offer competitive salaries and benefits, along with outstanding career development opportunities globally within Fairmont.
- Top Ten (Big Organisations) – Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2025
- HR in Hospitality Awards 2025: Excellence in Employee Experience
- HR Team of the Year
- HR Leader of the Year – awarded to our Director of People & Culture, Sally Webster
- Institute of Hospitality Awards 2025 Talent Development Team of the Year
Job Description
Job Title: Sommelier
Department: Bars, Food & Beverage
Inspired and Supported by: Head Of Bars
Salary: 39,645 (including service charge)
Your Purpose Will Be
To lead one of the most ambitious and extensive wine programmes in luxury hospitality. The Head Sommelier will be responsible for curating and delivering an exceptional wine experience centred around Beaufort Bar’s Discovery Programme, featuring over 100 wines available by the glass and one of the largest public luxury wine selections in the market.
You will inspire guests and team members alike through exceptional wine knowledge, engaging storytelling, and a passion for discovery, ensuring every guest interaction reinforces Beaufort Bar’s position as a world‑class destination for wine, Champagne, and luxury hospitality.
You Will Be Accountable For
Leadership and Team Management
- Create a sophisticated, memorable, and personalised wine experience for each guest, regardless of wine knowledge.
- Guide guests through the Discovery Programme and over 100 wines by the glass, making recommendations and tailoring experiences.
- Collaborate closely with the Host Team, Bar Team, Sommelier Team, and Head Sommelier to ensure a seamless five‑star experience.
- Adhere to Forbes Five‑Star and Savoy service standards, meeting clear performance expectations and measurable targets.
- Become an expert on the wine and Champagne programme, and develop a strong understanding of cocktails, spirits, and food to provide holistic recommendations.
- Attend regular tastings, supplier presentations, and training sessions to continuously develop wine knowledge and support colleague development.
- Represent Beaufort Bar and The Savoy proudly as part of a passionate, ambitious team.
- Previous sommelier, wine waiter, or luxury beverage service experience in a high‑end hospitality environment.
Qualifications
- Strong passion for wine, Champagne, and luxury hospitality.
- Demonstrable knowledge of classic wine regions, grape varieties, producers, and service standards.
- Passion for and understanding of Forbes Five‑Star hospitality and what it takes to deliver it.
- Excellent communication, storytelling, and guest engagement skills.
- Ability to confidently recommend wines and create tailored guest experiences.
- Quick thinking, resourceful, and able to solve problems in the moment.
- Remain calm, professional, and courteous at all times.
- Work well under pressure in a fast‑paced and changing environment.
- Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
- Collaborative team player.
- Willingness to work rotating shifts, including weekends and public holidays.
- Excellent spoken and written English.
- Right to work in the UK.
Additional Information
- Beyond the role, Sommelier colleagues benefit from ongoing wine education and sponsorship for advanced WSET qualifications through partnership with leading wine suppliers.
- Competitive salary and additional service charge.
- Life insurance and pension.
- 31 days of holiday (including public holidays).
- Exclusive discounts at Savoy, Fairmont, Raffles, Accor hotels, American & Beaufort Bars, Afternoon Tea, spa, florist, and select Gordon Ramsay restaurants.
- Free stay for two at The Savoy after successful probation.
- Colleague restaurant, gym, interfaith prayer room and wellness room.
- Laundry services.
- Cashback for wellbeing/healthcare expenses; HSF & Perkbox.
- Employee assistance program.
- Virgin Active and The Gym Group membership discounts.
- Cycle‑to‑work scheme.
- Season ticket loan for commuting.
- Annual optician reimbursements of £100.
- Local discounts for F&B and retail.
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