The Role
RB
Holdings is a growing hospitality group shaping some of the most distinctive
private members’ clubs and food businesses in London and New York. Founded by
Robin Birley, our businesses are built on discretion, craftsmanship, and deeply
personal service - delivered by teams who take pride in doing things properly.
Our
London portfolio includes 5 Hertford Street, Oswald’s, and Birley Bakery and
Chocolate Shop in Chelsea. In 2025, we expanded internationally with the
opening of Maxime’s, alongside a new Birley Bakery in New York City.
We
are seeking an exceptional Head Sommelier to steward and elevate our wine
department to the highest level. This role demands an individual of exceptional
taste, authority, and vision—someone capable of refining a distinguished wine
list while shaping its future direction. You will have ownership of the
department, rigorous cellar stewardship, and the cultivation of a polished
sommelier team dedicated to delivering seamless, intuitive, and discreetly
exceptional service, with the opportunity to earn up to £70,000 p/a!
Why
work with us as a Head Sommelier?
* Salary of up to £48,500 per annum +
discretionary service charge
* 28 days holiday per year (including
bank holidays)
* Birthday day off
* Discounted gym membership with
GymFlex
* Monthly well-being days with
our Masseuse, Reflexologist, and Chiropodist
* Private medical insurance with BUPA
* Private dental insurance with BUPA
* Workplace nursery scheme
* Cycle to Work Scheme
* Employee Assistance Programme –
Hospitality Action
* Access to a company doctor
* Eyecare & specs vouchers
* In-house industry training
* Sponsored social events
* Recommend a friend bonus of £1,000
* Staff Accommodation (subject to
availability)
* Online retail discounts
* Free English Classes
* Freshly prepared meals whilst on
duty
* And more!
Working
Hours:
* 5 day working week between Monday –
Saturday on a rota basis (seven shifts a week).
* Shifts will include evenings,
flexibility is essential
* Bank Holidays and the Christmas
period off – our venues are closed.
What you will do:
* Wine Department Ownership: Curate and steward the wine list,
ensuring a carefully balanced, and dynamically evolving selection that
complements and elevates the culinary offering.
* Cellar Management: Oversee stock management, inventory, to
ensure optimal stock levels and cost controls.
* Leadership & Development: Lead, mentor, and develop the
sommelier team, fostering a culture defined by intellectual rigour, shared
passion, and exemplary hospitality.
* Guest Experience: Deliver exceptional, expert service
in the dining room, guiding guests through considered recommendations and
informed discourse that deepens their engagement with the cuisine and
cellar.
* Pairing Creation: Work closely with the Executive Chef to
create innovative food and wine pairings.
What We Are Looking For?
* A minimum of 2+ years of experience as a Head/Senior
Sommelier in a high-calibre fine dining or luxury hotel environment.
* WSET Level 3 or 4 (Diploma) or CMS
Certified/Advanced Sommelier preferred.
* Expertise of Old and New World wines;
experience with [Sake/specific regional focus if applicable] is a bonus.
* A
composed and charismatic leader, distinguished by exceptional
communication, assured initiative, and a calm, professional presence under
pressure.