Assistant Head Sommelier

Assistant Head Sommelier - Luxury Hotel

We are recruiting for a full time Assistant Head Sommelierto 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) and 2 days off.

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

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.