Assistant Head Sommelier MA/NA (Opening January 2026)
Location: 30 Upper Grosvenor Street, Mayfair
About MA/NA Opening in January 2026 on Upper Grosvenor Street, MA/NA is born from the Japanese philosophy that every ingredient carries an invisible power a life-force shaped by nature and the hands that honour it.
Mana is the spiritual energy that exists beneath the surface of all things. It is felt rather than seen transforming emotion into experience, and a meal into memory.
Guided by this belief, MA/NA offers a seamless blend of restaurant and bar refined Japanese dishes alongside an exceptional cocktail, wine and sake list. Here, cocktails flow effortlessly into dinner, and dinner naturally returns to drinks.
Every element from design and service to sound and light is intentional. Each detail celebrates the extraordinary within the simple.
The Role - Assistant Head Sommelier
As Assistant Head Sommelier at MA/NA, you will support the creation and execution of an exceptional beverage programme that celebrates the harmony between wine, sake, and Japanese cuisine.
Working closely with the Head Sommelier, you will help develop and maintain a world-class cellar - one that reflects refinement, discovery, and respect for craftsmanship. Youll guide guests and team members through a journey of flavour and philosophy, connecting them to the story and energy behind each bottle.
Collaborating across the kitchen and bar teams, youll help ensure perfect synergy between dishes, cocktails, and pairings, elevating every aspect of the guest experience.
This is a dynamic, hands-on role suited to a Sommelier who embodies curiosity, precision, and emotional intelligence - someone who strives to learn, lead, and grow within a world-class opening.
Key Responsibilities
Support all aspects of the wine and sake programme, from sourcing and selection to service and team education
Assist in curating an innovative, balanced list featuring both iconic producers and artisanal discoveries
Contribute to the development of a premium sake offering and guest education around Japanese beverages
Collaborate closely with the Executive Chef, Head Sommelier, and Head of Wine & Sake to craft harmonious food and drink pairings
Help train and mentor the sommelier and front-of-house teams to deliver expert yet intuitive service
Support cellar management, stock control, and supplier relationships
Represent MA/NA at industry tastings, events, and collaborations
Step into leadership responsibilities in the absence of the Head Sommelier
What Were Looking For Proven experience as a Sommelier or Senior Sommelier in a fine dining or high-end environment
Strong understanding of international wine regions, producers, and styles
Knowledge of sake, ideally with WSET Sake Level 3 or a desire to achieve certification
A refined palate and passion for Japanese cuisine and beverage culture
Excellent guest communication and storytelling ability
Organised, motivated, and collaborative approach to service and leadership
A calm, professional presence and commitment to continuous learning
A desire to help shape one of Londons most exciting new openings
What We Offer Competitive salary and service charge package
Opportunity to play a key role in the beverage programme for a flagship opening within the Thesleff Group
Collaboration with world-class chefs and bar professionals
Continued training, tasting, and professional development
Staff meals, wellness initiatives, and a supportive, creative working environment
Join the MA/NA Opening Team If you are guided by balance, curiosity, and craft and want to grow within a team that transforms emotion into experience wed love to hear from you.
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