Lead Sommelier

Where you’ll work

The Ritz-Carlton Charlotte stands as a modern crown jewel in the Queen City and where sophistication meets a legacy of innovation.  Just as prospectors once arrived in the Carolinas chasing the promise of gold, today’s guests are drawn to this refined urban retreat in pursuit of something equally rare: effortless luxury, personalized service and moments that feel like true precious finds.

At the Ritz-Carlton Charlotte, retreat reveals itself in thoughtfully curated moments, from a serene penthouse spa to a refined Golden Hour each evening at our lobby’s Treasure Chest bar. Culinary experiences shine under the partnership of Michael Mina, along with vibrant dining concepts from Stephen and Ayesha Curry.  This is the story of the Carolina Gold Rush reimagined into a stay that truly sparkles.

Bourbon Steak by Michelin-starred, award-winning chef Michael Mina is a modern American steakhouse renowned for its exceptional culinary craftsmanship, premium cuts of beef, fresh seafood, and signature hospitality.  Combining refined dining with a warm and approachable atmosphere, Bourbon Steak delivers a memorable guest experience through meticulous attention to detail, innovative cuisine, and personalized service. Through a commitment to quality, teamwork, and culinary innovation, Bourbon Steak sets the standard for luxury dining and unforgettable restaurant experiences.

Who you are

As a Lead Sommelier, you will elevate the fine dining experience through exceptional wine expertise, personalized recommendations, and thoughtful service. You will develop beverage talent, elevate wine knowledge across the service team, and create memorable experiences that drive beverage sales and strengthen the restaurant’s reputation for excellence.

What you'll do

• Provide expert wine recommendations and pairings that enhance menu offerings and the overall dining experience.

• Educate guests on wine origins, vintages, varietals, and pairings to enhance their dining experience.

• Develop and maintain wine lists, beverage offerings, and promotional programs aligned with business goals and market trends.

• Build strong relationships with wineries, distributors, vendors, and internal stakeholders.

• Source and evaluate new wines through tastings, vendor partnerships, and industry engagement.

• Oversee wine cellar operations, including inventory management, storage standards, and product replenishment.

• Lead wine education initiatives, tastings, and training programs to strengthen team expertise.

• Support leadership in hiring, onboarding, scheduling, coaching, and developing team members.

• Partner effectively with culinary, service, and operational teams to ensure seamless execution.

What's expected of you

• Serve as a role model for service excellence, professionalism, and company values.

• Lead a collaborative, team-oriented culture focused on guest satisfaction and operational excellence.

• Follow all company, safety, sanitation, and security policies and procedures.

• Report maintenance concerns, accidents, injuries, and unsafe conditions promptly.

• Participate in required training and consistently uphold established operational standards.

• Safeguard inventory, equipment, and financial assets while ensuring accuracy and accountability.

• Consistently demonstrate attention to detail, operational excellence, and service-driven performance.

• Perform other reasonable job duties as requested by Supervisors.

Physical Requirements

• Read and visually verify information in a variety of formats, including small print.

• Stand, sit, or walk for an extended period of time or for an entire work shift.

• Lift, carry, push, and pull items weighing up to 25 pounds independently and over 50 pounds with assistance.

• Grasp, turn, and manipulate objects of varying sizes and weights, requiring fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.

• Move through narrow, confined, or elevated spaces.

• Move over sloping, uneven, or slippery surfaces and up or down stairs and/or service ramps.

• Reach overhead and below the knees, including bending, twisting, pulling, and stooping.

Preferred Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent.

Related Work Experience: 2 years of related work experience.

Supervisory Experience: 1 year of supervisory experience.

License or Certification: None