Head Sommelier

Exceptional drinks. Thoughtful curation. Warm hospitality.

Join the Founding Team of Oudh 1722

Coming to Borough in March 2026, Oudh 1722 is a project rooted in the soul of Awadhi cuisine and the art of genuine hospitality. We are transforming a three-story Victorian building into a dining sanctuary where the food defined by the slow-cooked, aromatic traditions of Lucknow is only half the story.

From the moment guests step inside, they should feel the theatre of the kitchen and the warmth of a world-class front-of-house team working in perfect harmony. Backed by a Michelin-starred pedigree, we are building an environment that is as intentional as it is elegant. We are looking for people who want to be part of a team where the service feels just as "handmade" and soulful as the food we serve.

This is a senior, hands-on role for a passionate wine professional who thrives on the floor and enjoys developing teams.

The Head Sommelier is the driving force behind the wine experience, shaping the list, leading service, and bringing the drinks story to life on the floor. It’s about great wines, confident service, and developing the team by keeping the programme sharp, commercial, and fun, while making guests feel looked after and excited to return.

In Your First 12 Months, You’ll…

• Lead and own the wine programme, ensuring it complements the menu, brand, and guest experience

• Curate and maintain a focused, high-quality wine list with strong commercial performance

• Lead wine service on the floor during service, delivering confident, engaging, and warm guest interactions

• Train and develop the FOH team on wine knowledge, service standards, and upselling techniques

• Work closely with the General Manager and kitchen team on pairings, menu changes, and new launches

• Own wine purchasing, stock control, cellar organisation, and stock rotation

• Manage wine GP, wastage, and inventory accuracy in line with agreed targets

• Create and maintain wine service standards, ensuring consistency across all shifts

• Support private events, tastings, and special wine-led activations when required

• Act as a brand ambassador for the drinks programme, representing quality, knowledge, and hospitality

What You Bring

• Proven experience as a Head Sommelier or Senior Sommelier in a premium or quality-led restaurant

• Strong wine knowledge with a commercial mindset (WSET Level 3 or equivalent preferred)

• Confident floor presence with excellent guest communication skills

• Experience training and developing teams in wine service and sales

• Organised, detail-focused approach to stock, suppliers, and cost control

• A genuine passion for wine, hospitality, and guest experience

The Package

• Competitive salary per annum including service charge (DOE)

• 5.6 weeks paid holiday (inclusive of public holidays)

• Staff meals during shifts

• Generous staff discounts and regular team socials

• Training and development support, including tastings and supplier visits

• Opportunity to shape and own a high-profile wine programme

Why Work With Us

• Culinary Excellence & Innovation – Work alongside Michelin-level chefs

• Creative Freedom – Real input into wine selection and programme direction

• Career Progression – Opportunities to grow with the business

• Competitive Compensation – Transparent tronc and fair pay structures

• Work-Life Balance – Respectful rota planning and fair scheduling

• Inclusive Culture – Diverse, welcoming, and people-first environment

Ready to lead a wine programme and elevate the dining experience?

Apply now and become part of a quality-led operation built around people, food, and hospitality.