We’re Hiring: Wine Steward

Position: Wine Steward
Remuneration: Negotiable DoE
Location: Skukuza, Kruger National Park
Job level: Mid – Management
Type: Three Months Fixed Term Contract/Permanent
Company: Kruger Shalati

Kruger Shalati would like to announce a new vacant position in the capacity of Wine Steward.

Job Purpose
The wine steward supports the Food and Beverage Management by providing a high-quality speciality wine service, as is befitting a Luxury 5-Star Lodge.

Job description

  • Liaise with the Head Chef and Food and Beverage Management on a regular basis to match weekly wines with the food specials menus
  • Organise and conduct regular spot checks throughout the outlets, and all Wine Cellars for monitoring stock control.
  • Conduct random, but often, shifts of shadowing bartenders in various outlets to ensure quality control
  • Ensure efficient internal communication with other departments to ensure the wine cycle of purchase, storage, promotion, service and sales happens effectively and is well co-ordinated
  • Ensure that all wine lists are continually updated and out of stock wines are replaced and communicated accordingly
  • Check, control and issue all wine and liquor requisitions to the bartenders/waiters following the proper chain of command and ensuring the existence of the needed signatures
  • Upsell and maximise sales revenue whenever and wherever possible through intensive training
  • Ensure for the accurate end of day procedures where required, as well as all guest settlements, voids, discounts, adjustments and corrections within the assigned authority level.
  • Ensure the beverage service to guests is of the expected standard, maintaining the reputation of the Hotel
  • Have complete knowledge of the wine list and be able to advise guests and pair with food menu items and conduct tastings when required
  • Report any guest feedback to the outlet managers in each area
  • Schedule and facilitate a programme of weekly training sessions for service staff to attend
  • Participate in the planning and development of any future events that have a beverage involvement
  • Attend daily outlet briefings, and as needed de-briefings, with the Food & Beverage Management teams before/after every service
  • Work alongside managers in the preparation of the main wine list and cocktail menu
  • Make seasonal changes to the wine offer in each area through liaising with the Head Chef and Food and Beverage Management of each of the outlets
  • Ensure proper mise-en-place is completed with the necessary equipment required to enable smooth trouble-free service
  • Check and control all store requisitions for all glassware with the restaurant managers so that there is always sufficient stock and par stocks are maintained
  • Maintain a regular check on beverage stock, par levels and general condition of products
  • Ensure that wastage is minimised through promotions, proper stock control and rotation
  • Monitor and control average spent through the various units and implement strategies, such as product placement and specific training to match and exceed budget
  • Form and maintain sound relationships with various suppliers in obtaining the best product and prices
  • To conduct monthly inventories of all wine and beverage in all outlets and stock, as well as a nightly check of the beverage sales and bottle count
  • Ensure the beverage operating equipment are maintained in a clean state and in good repair at all times
  • Report any defaults directly to the appropriate department.
  • Work closely with the Storeman to minimise breakage

Education:

  • Diploma in Hotel Management, Beverage Management or other related fields
  • WSET Level 1 or 2

Work Experience:

  • 3 Years of experience in a similar role of Wine Steward role in a luxury 5-Star operation
  • Demonstrated previous experience in a luxury accommodation environment

Personal Qualities:

  • Committed to providing exceptional levels of service to others and models these skills
  • Demonstrates exceptional levels of integrity, fairness and empathy
  • Ability to work effectively when under pressure
  • Ability to demonstrate a flexible approach to getting work done, adjusting to changing circumstances and demands
  • Emotionally stable, even tempered and calm when faced with challenges
  • Maintains positive outlook in most challenging situations and circumstances
  • Demonstrates high levels of resilience in demanding environments
  • Ability to establish strong relationships with people from different backgrounds

To apply for the position, please forward a motivational letter, an updated CV with a picture of yourself to jobs@krugershalati.com. Please indicate if you are a Skukuza land claimant with the group name and group number.’

Closing date: 24 November 2024

**Please note that only successful candidates will be contacted. Should you not hear from us within 21 working days – please consider your application unsuccessful. Kruger Shalati reserves the right not to fill the position, to postpone or re-advertise the role. Preference will be given to Kruger Land claim beneficiaries.