Sommelier - Italian Restaurant Wine Expert

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Beverage Director to oversee all aspects of beverage operations in a dynamic, high-volume restaurant environment. This position plays a key leadership role in maintaining the highest standards of service, training, and product quality while fostering a culture of excellence and teamwork.

The Beverage Director will manage all facets of the bar program — from product selection, inventory management, and cost control to staff development, vendor relations, and guest experience. This role requires a strategic thinker with strong leadership skills, exceptional beverage knowledge, and a genuine passion for hospitality.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Operations

• Lead by example, upholding professionalism, integrity, and a guest-first culture.
• Partner with management to ensure efficient daily operations across all front-of-house departments.
• Oversee and mentor all bar staff, including hiring, training, scheduling, and performance evaluations.
• Collaborate closely with the General Manager and Executive Chef to create and execute beverage initiatives that enhance the guest experience.
• Maintain accurate documentation for employee communications, training records, and operational procedures.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, sanitation, and responsible alcohol service standards.

Beverage Program Management

• Oversee all beverage operations, including beer, wine, spirits, and non-alcoholic programs.
• Conduct monthly inventory and manage ordering, receiving, and storage processes to meet cost of goods (COGs) goals.
• Develop and maintain vendor relationships, negotiate pricing, and stay current with market trends and seasonal offerings.
• Lead the creation and innovation of cocktail menus, wine lists, and specialty beverage features.
• Coordinate and host beverage-related events, pairing dinners, and educational programs for guests and staff.

Training & Education

• Develop and implement ongoing beverage education programs for all front-of-house team members.
• Organize tastings, product knowledge sessions, and tours with local breweries, wineries, and distilleries.
• Foster a team culture that values learning, hospitality, and service excellence.

Administrative & Financial Management

• Forecast labor and staffing needs based on business levels and event schedules.
• Ensure all staff adhere to scheduling, payroll, and time-off policies.
• Monitor and analyze beverage sales data to identify opportunities for growth and improvement.
• Uphold accurate recordkeeping for comps, voids, and cash handling in accordance with company standards.
• Contribute to weekly management meetings with insights and strategic recommendations.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of bartending experience and 2+ years in a bar leadership or beverage management role.
• Strong knowledge of beer, wine, and spirits; Level 1 Cicerone certification preferred (or willingness to obtain).
• ServSafe and responsible alcohol service certifications required.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with inventory control, vendor management, and cost analysis.
• Proficient in POS systems (Toast preferred), scheduling software (7Shifts), and Google Workspace.
• Ability to work 40–60 hours per week, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Must be 21 years of age or older.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs and work in a fast-paced, high-energy environment.
• Comfortable working in hot, humid, and noisy conditions.

What We Offer

• A supportive, collaborative management team.
• Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.
• Creative input in shaping an innovative, trend-forward beverage program.
• Housing, Bonus plans, Tip pools, and Relocation assistance.

The Restaurant Zone is a leading hospitality recruitment agency specializing in connecting top-tier talent with restaurants, hotels, and hospitality groups across the United States. We partner with growing brands and established operators to deliver high-quality candidates for management, executive, and specialized roles. Our team combines industry expertise, a vast candidate network, and a results-driven approach to help businesses build strong, reliable teams. At The Restaurant Zone, we focus on speed, quality, and long-term fit—ensuring both clients and candidates succeed.