Steeped in history and situated in the heart of Belgravia, The Pembroke stands apart as a unique club for Londoners. From the spirit of our members to the splendour of our events, we are a home for eclectic and excellent living. A place to eat, drink, dance and meet, The Pembroke opens its doors to those who wish to fill their world with the finest experiences, from cocktails to culture, billiards to business.
Our fifth floor Whisky Bar, serving cocktails and a small selection of bar snacks, will be open late afternoon until late night. Stretching across two rooms, the space also includes 'The Nest' an exclusive area for our Committee and Life Members.
ROLE OVERVIEW
To further elevate and enhance our operations, we
are seeking an accomplished Cigar Sommelier to contribute and deliver on the
club’s success, providing exceptional experiences for our members.
The Cigar Sommelier will play a key role in the delivery of the club’s cigar
service, supporting the Bars Manager and Assistant Bars Manager in the
day-to-day execution of the cigar and bar programme. This role requires a
strong foundation of cigar and bar knowledge, an instinct for personalised
service and a genuine passion for hospitality. The Cigar Sommelier will be
responsible for providing expert guidance to members and guests, maintaining
impeccable service standards and contributing to a refined and engaging cigar
and bar culture within the club. The ideal candidate will be polished, curious
and commercially aware, with experience in a luxury hospitality or private
members' club environment.
The role will involve managing a skilled cigar team, overseeing
inventory and stock control and contributing to the development of unique and
sophisticated cigar menus tailored to the club’s discerning clientele. The Pembroke is a late-night venue open from
speciality coffee at breakfast to martini’s at 3am, and you would be
responsible for the delivery of smooth service by you or your team at all
times.
RESPONSIBILITIES
* Deliver an exceptional and personalised cigar
and bar service to members and guests, ensuring every interaction reflects
the club’s high standards of hospitality.
* Provide knowledgeable and confident cigar
recommendations based on members’ preferences, menu selections and
occasions.
* Support the Beverage Director in the
maintenance, presentation and execution of the cigar list and bar offering,
ensuring accuracy and consistency at all times.
* Assist with the development of cigar, cocktail
and spirit pairings for menus, events and private dining experiences.
* Ensure cigars are stored, handled and served
correctly, including correct temperatures, cutting and lighting
procedures.
* Maintain detailed knowledge of the club’s cigar
offering, including agriculture, production & presentation, brands
& specialities, vitolas, and general cigar industry knowledge.
* Assist with stock control, cellar organisation
and inventory checks for both cigar and bar, ensuring optimal stock levels
and minimal wastage.
* Support the Beverage Director during tastings,
member events, cigar/spirit/wine dinners and masterclasses.
* Build strong rapport with members, learning
and remembering individual preferences to deliver a bespoke and
anticipatory service.
* Collaborate effectively with the floor/bar
team, kitchen and wider F&B team to ensure seamless service delivery.
* Uphold all health, safety and licensing
regulations relating to the service of alcohol and tobacco.
* Lead,
motivate, and develop the bar team, ensuring the team are well-trained,
knowledgeable and efficient.
* Create staff
rotas to ensure the bar is adequately staffed at all times, factoring in
peak hours and member demand.
* Monitor the cigar
department’s financial performance, managing costs to ensure profitability
while maintaining high-quality standards.
REQUIREMENTS
* A recognised qualification (e.g., Maestro de
Habanos) or equivalent practical cigar knowledge.
* Previous experience as a Cigar Sommelier or
senior cigar service role within a fine dining, luxury hospitality, private
members' club environment or similar.
* Strong knowledge of classic and emerging cigar
regions, cigar varieties, styles and service techniques.
* A natural enthusiasm for cigars and the bar
industry and a desire to continue learning and developing professionally.
* Excellent interpersonal and communication
skills, with confidence engaging a discerning and international
membership.
* Strong attention to detail and pride in
maintaining exceptional service standards.
* Ability to remain calm, organised and
professional in a fast-paced service environment.
* A collaborative mindset with the ability to
take direction while also showing initiative.
WHAT WE OFFER
* Best-in-class
salary
* Family meal on
shift
* Industry-leading
Learning & Development opportunities
* Pension scheme –
including employer contributions.
* Annual staff award
ceremony and party
* More benefits to be
set up as we open