Assistant Head Sommelier – Luxury Hotel
We are recruiting for a full time Assistant Head Sommelier to provide quality service to our guests, in line with the Forbes Five Star standards and The Red Carnation Hotels standards. The role is based in our main outlet, the fine‑dining George V Restaurant at Ashford Castle, led by award‑winning Executive Head Chef Liam Finnegan. The position also oversees our highly renowned Wine Cellar, which is very well known among wine lovers, and you would be joining a team of seven Sommeliers and one Head Sommelier.
Location: Cong, County Mayo, Ireland (relocation assistance available + staff accommodation)
Employment type: Full time permanent
Working pattern: 5 days over 7 days (including some weekends & Bank Holidays) and 2 days off.
Salary: Competitive
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 Assistant Head Sommelier will include:
- Assist the Head Sommelier in the day to day running of the Sommelier Team.
- Prepare the George V Dining Room for wine service to the highest standard.
- Maintain accurate inventory of all wines and conduct monthly stocktakes.
- 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.
- Leading the Sommelier team during service, providing guidance and training to the team.
The ideal candidate for the Assistant Head Sommelier position will:
- Have a minimum 2 year previous experience in a similar role.
- Demonstrate a strong interest in wine; a relevant qualification WSET L3 is essential.
- Possess a superior knowledge of wine, regions and suppliers.
- 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.
What's in it for you?
- Professional, award winning training and development opportunities
- Discounted accommodation rates with Red Carnation Hotel Collection
- Annual Staff Appreciation Party and other 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
We are 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.