Head Sommelier (Interim)

About the role

We are seeking an Interim Head Sommelier to lead guest service and hospitality standards at a premium vineyard estate in Kent. This three‑month temporary role combines wine expertise with hands‑on leadership of the tasting room and cellar‑door operations.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee guest service across lunches, tastings, retail sales and events.
• Support the Cellar Door Manager with daily hospitality operations.
• Supervise Cellar Door Hosts and support staff during service and events.
• Manage multiple private bookings, walk‑ins and corporate hospitality sessions simultaneously.
• Maintain smooth service flow and commercial focus across all guest‑facing areas.
• Use wine knowledge and storytelling to enhance the estate’s brand and product experience.
• Drive sales, memberships, repeat bookings and overall customer engagement.
• Handle guest feedback, enquiries and service challenges professionally.

Required profile

• Proven experience in a senior hospitality or wine service role.
• Strong leadership and team‑management abilities.
• Excellent communication and customer‑service skills.
• Commercial awareness with a focus on driving sales.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, event‑driven environment.

Required skills

• In‑depth wine knowledge and the ability to convey stories about the estate and its products.
• Event coordination and private‑booking management.
• Retail sales and hospitality operations.

What we offer

• Temporary contract of at least three months with the possibility of extension.
• Opportunity to work in a prestigious, award‑winning English vineyard.
• Exposure to cellar‑door sales, private events and corporate hospitality.
• A varied role that blends service, sales, guest experience and team leadership.