Head Sommelier

Celebrating 20 years since first opening its doors in London, Zuma is sophisticated twist on the traditional Japanese Izakaya style of informal eating and drinking. Co-founded by Rainer Becker and Arjun Waney in 2002, Zuma has 15 venues globally and 9 seasonal locations.

Featuring modern Japanese cuisine that is authentic but not traditional. The menu showcases a variety of dishes from its three kitchens: the main kitchen, the sushi counter and the robata grill.

Zuma offers a comprehensive benefits package that reflects our commitment to taking great care of our team members. Here’s a summary of the fantastic benefits you can expect as part of the Zuma family:

• Health Benefits: Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance to ensure your well-being.
• Paid Time Off: Annual PTO to relax and recharge.
• Career Growth: Take advantage of opportunities to grow your career with Zuma at our locations globally, including in the US, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
• Global Experience: Work alongside a team with extensive global hospitality and culinary experience, offering you invaluable learning and growth opportunities.
• Family Meals: Enjoy complimentary daily family meals at our restaurant.
• Dining Discounts: Receive a 50% discount on dining at Zuma, so you can savor our culinary delights even off the clock.
• Referral Bonus Program: Earn bonuses for referring talented friends and colleagues to join our team.

Celebrating 20 years since first opening its doors in London, Zuma is sophisticated twist on the traditional Japanese Izakaya style of informal eating and drinking. Co-founded by Rainer Becker and Arjun Waney in 2002, Zuma has 15 venues globally and 9 seasonal locations.

Featuring modern Japanese cuisine that is authentic but not traditional. The menu showcases a variety of dishes from its three kitchens: the main kitchen, the sushi counter and the robata grill.

JOB SUMMARY:

Head Sommelier is responsible for curating and managing the wine program to enhance the dining experience for our guests. You will use your expertise in wine& sake selection, and service to elevate the overall beverage program and contribute to the success of our restaurant.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Maintain and develop an extensive and diverse wine list that complements the cuisine and reflects the style and standards of Zuma, ensuring that it offers a broad selection of wines to suit different preferences and occasions

Conduct regular tastings and evaluations of new and existing wines to assess quality, value, and suitability for inclusion in the wine list, taking into account factors such as flavor profile, region, vintage, and price point

Assist guests in selecting wines and sake by offering personalized recommendations based on their preferences, budget, and food choices, and providing information about grape varietals, wine regions, producers, and tasting notes

Conduct weekly inventory assessments to ensure accurate stock levels

Collaborate with the culinary team to develop wine pairing, guidance and expertise to guests to enhance their dining experience and promote sales of wine, sake and other beverages

Oversee wine service standards and procedures, ensuring that wines are stored, handled, and served according to best practices to preserve quality and enhance the guest experience, and training and coaching staff as needed to maintain high standards of service

Conduct wine training and education sessions for staff to increase their knowledge and understanding of wine and sake, including grape varietals, production methods, tasting techniques, and service etiquette, to enhance their ability to engage with guests and sell wine effectively

Support overall restaurant operations by assisting on the floor, including clearing tables, running food and drinks, and other tasks as needed to ensure smooth service

• Stay informed about industry trends, developments, and emerging wine regions and producers
• Follow Zuma's service standards and protocols, including uniform guidelines, grooming standards, and service etiquette
• Attend pre-shift meetings and training sessions to stay informed about menu changes, specials, and promotions, and to enhance product knowledge and service skills
• Operate ethically to protect the image of the company
• Performs other duties and responsibilities as required or requested

JOB KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS:

Certified Sommelier or higher certification preferred, with a deep knowledge of wine regions, grape varietals, production methods, and wine service techniques

Previous experience as a Sommelier in a fine dining restaurant or similar upscale establishment

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage with guests in a friendly and professional manner

Attention to detail and ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment, while maintaining a high level of accuracy and efficiency

Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team, supporting colleagues and contributing to a positive work environment

Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as required

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to perform the essential job functions consistent safely and successfully with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state, and local standards, including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 25 lbs; Ability to stand for prolong periods of time and climb steps regularly
• Ability to physically maneuver through work areas; bend, lift, carry, reach/extend arms, and hands above shoulder height frequently, or otherwise move in a constantly changing environment

Zuma is an equal opportunity employer.