An acclaimed global hospitality brand is seeking a Beverage / Wine Director to lead the beverage program for a high-profile new restaurant opening in the West Village. This is a World’s 50 Best restaurant group expanding into the U.S. market, offering a rare opportunity to shape and execute a best-in-class beverage program from the ground up.
This role is ideal for a highly knowledgeable and service-driven beverage leader with a refined palate, strong global wine expertise, and a passion for hospitality. The ideal candidate brings a thoughtful, curated approach to wine and beverage, thrives in high-performance environments, and is comfortable operating within a globally recognized, critically acclaimed brand.
Key Requirements
- 3+ years of experience as a Beverage Director, Head Sommelier, or Wine Director in a high-level concept
- Deep knowledge of global wine regions, producers, and vintages, with strong buying relationships preferred
- Proven experience building and maintaining award-caliber wine programs
- Strong understanding of P&L, beverage cost controls, and inventory management
- Experience working within upscale, refined dining environments
- Background or familiarity with South American wines and spirits is helpful
- Spanish speaking is a plus, but not required
- Well-versed in the NYC market, including distributor relationships and pricing dynamics
Core Responsibilities
- Develop, curate, and maintain a world-class wine and beverage program aligned with the brand’s global identity
- Oversee all wine and beverage purchasing, inventory, and cost controls
- Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors, distributors, and producers
- Collaborate closely with the culinary and leadership teams to ensure thoughtful beverage pairings and cohesive guest experience
- Lead training and education for FOH staff, ensuring deep product knowledge and elevated service standards
- Act as a visible presence on the floor, guiding guest experience and driving beverage sales
- Support the team through the opening phase, including program development, staff training, and service execution
- Ensure compliance with all NYC DOH and alcohol regulations
Additional Requirements
- Ability to travel internationally for training and potential sourcing opportunities
- Full availability throughout the pre-opening and opening phase
Personal Qualities
- Refined, intuitive palate with a passion for storytelling through beverage
- Calm, composed, and detail-oriented under pressure
- Polished, service-driven, and highly collaborative
- Natural leader and educator with strong communication skills
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary DOE
- bonus
- Health insurance
- Laundry service
- Cell phone reimbursement