Head Sommelier

Forbes House Madrid  Madrid | Full Time  Join the world's first Forbes House Forbes House Madrid is the first private members' club by Forbes anywhere in the world. Conceived as an exclusive destination for global leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators and tastemakers, Forbes House brings together exceptional hospitality, world-class gastronomy, culture and meaningful connections in one extraordinary setting. We are seeking an outstanding Head Sommelier  to lead the wine programme and sommelier team, elevating every aspect of the beverage experience to the highest international standards.

Reporting directly to the Beverage Director, Angelo Altobelli , this is a strategic leadership role requiring an experienced hospitality professional with a global mindset, exceptional wine expertise and a passion for luxury service.

Key Responsibilities Lead, develop and inspire the Sommelier team across Forbes House Madrid. Design, curate and continuously evolve a world-class wine programme aligned with the culinary vision of the gastronomic restaurant. Manage the wine cellar, purchasing strategy, supplier relationships and inventory control. Ensure exceptional wine service standards across all dining experiences. Collaborate closely with the Executive Chef and Beverage Director on pairing menus and bespoke guest experiences.

Support the planning and execution of exclusive wine dinners, tastings, member experiences, VIP events and international brand activations. Train, mentor and develop the front-of-house team in wine knowledge and beverage service. Drive beverage revenue through strategic wine list development, upselling initiatives and cost management. Maintain the highest standards of luxury hospitality, anticipating the expectations of an international membership community. Act as a key ambassador of Forbes House and assist the Beverage Director in the overall beverage strategy of the club.  

Profile Minimum of 5 years experience as Head Sommelier or Senior Sommelier in Michelin-starred restaurants, luxury hotels or prestigious private members' clubs. International hospitality experience is highly valued. Demonstrated expertise in leading sommelier teams and developing premium wine programmes. Proven experience managing luxury events, wine dinners and high-profile guest experiences. Extensive knowledge of Old and New World wines, Champagne, fortified wines and premium beverages.

Strong commercial awareness and experience in purchasing, budgeting and cellar management. Outstanding leadership, communication and organisational skills. Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-performance luxury environment. WSET Diploma, Court of Master Sommeliers or equivalent professional qualification is highly desirable. Fluent English is essential;
Spanish is highly valued. Additional languages are an advantage.  

What We Offer The opportunity to become part of the inaugural team of the world's first Forbes House. A unique leadership role within one of Europe s most exciting luxury hospitality projects. The opportunity to work alongside internationally recognised hospitality professionals. A dynamic, international and excellence-driven working environment. Competitive compensation package and attractive professional development opportunities.  If you are passionate about creating exceptional wine experiences and aspire to shape the beverage identity of one of the world's most exclusive private members' clubs, we would be delighted to hear from you.