Sommelier

Restaurant Department

Profession Name: Sommelier
Also known as: Wine Steward, Head Waiter
Promoted position: Restaurant Manager
Average Wage: 2000 USD
Receives tips? Yes
Average Working Hours: 68 hours per Week
Night-shift rotation? No
English proficiency needed: Fluent

The sommelier is responsible for ensuring that the wine and beverage sales forecast are met. They should also, strive to meet/exceed the targeted cost of sales for all venues on board as determined by the company and/or the Restaurant Manager. Although deals with beverages, this position belongs to the restaurant department on almost all cruise companies as most Sommeliers are also Waiters.

 

Other responsibilities will include maintaining and updating the Wine List to reflect the products and vintages that are in stores and in the wine pantry, within the guidelines established by the corporate office. They should also, liaise with the Controller in order to determine what labels from the hosting selection need to be used in order to maintain stocks on hand within the goals set by the company. The ideal candidate must have previous cruise ship experience and experience as a supervisor in a dining room environment.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Minimum one or two years experience in a high volume food operation establishment like an upscale restaurant, hotel, resort or cruise ship experience is preferred. Good interpersonal skills, positive attitude and willingness to learn. Excellent communication skills and good command of the English language, knowledge of additional languages is a plus. Ability to work in a multicultural environment.

RECOMMENDED CERTIFICATIONS

Any internationally recognized Wine or Sommelier certification like: WSET Academic Certification, CMS Certification, Master of Wine certification or Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI)

Fluent in French as a second or third language is preferred.