Head Sommelier

Terms and conditions for this position will be discussed at interview

Head Sommelier – Luxury Hotel

We are recruiting for a full time Head Sommelier to provide quality service to our guests,in line with the Forbes Five Star standards and The Red Carnation Hotels standards.

Location:Cong,County Mayo,Ireland .

Employment type:Full time.

Working pattern: 5 days over 7 days (including some weekends & Bank Holidays).

What's in it for you?

• Professional,award winning training and development opportunities
• Discounted accommodation rates with Red Carnation Hotel Collection
• Employee Recognition Events
• Discounted rates with many local businesses and third party service providers (including Estate Activities)
• Heavily subsidised accommodation (subject to availability)
• Free meals on duty
• Complimentary dry cleaning of business attire
• Recommend friend and family bonus scheme
• Two paid volunteering days each year
• Holiday allowance increasing with length of service up to 25 days
• Hotel based recognition incentives
• Free access to Employee Assistance Programme

Who are we?

Join Ashford Castle and become part of a legendary story. As Ireland’s only double Forbes Five-Star Hotel & Spa,Ashford Castle is a true icon of Irish heritage and a proud member of the Red Carnation Hotel Collection. Beyond its grand stone gates lies an unforgettable experience. Once home to the Guinness family,this 800-year-old castle offers award-winning luxury,exceptional dining,a world-class spa,and a passionate team dedicated to creating unforgettable moments. Voted No. 1 Resort Hotel in the UK & Ireland by Travel + Leisure and proud to have retained the Forbes Five-Star award in 2025.

Key responsibilities of the Head Sommelier will include:

• Consistently meet and exceed guest expectations in the service of wines and beverages.
• Prepare the George V Dining Room for lunch and dinner wine service to the highest standard.
• Maintain accurate inventory of all wines and spirits.
• Deliver knowledgeable,precise,and attentive wine service to every guest.
• Ensure guest satisfaction by offering confident recommendations and responding promptly and professionally to requests and concerns.
• Provide exceptional guest care and personalised service at all times,anticipating needs and taking proactive steps to exceed expectations wherever possible.

The ideal candidate for the Sommelier position will:

• Have a minimum 2 year previous experience in a hospitality setting/fine dining setting.
• Demonstrate a strong interest in wine; a relevant qualification WSET L3 is essential.
• Possess a warm,outgoing,and approachable personality.
• Be enthusiastic,adaptable,and flexible with working hours,available to work 5 days across a 7 day period (weekends & Bank Holidays included).
• Have excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Show strong attention to detail and commitment to high standards.
• Be legally eligible to work in Ireland.
• Thrive in a fast-paced environment and manage workload efficiently.
• Strong Partnership relations
• Have strong Stock Management Knowledge

Committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

As part of the recruitment process,we may electronically scan and securely store a copy of your passport,visa and/or ID card for the purpose of verifying the authenticity of the document and establishing your Right to Work in the Republic of Ireland,in line with statutory requirements.