Group Beverage Director

Kuma Hospitality Group: l'abeille - Sushi Ichimura - l'abeille à côté

Job Title: Group Beverage Director

Company: Michelin awarded Restaurant Group

Location: New York City

Job Type: Full Time

Job Overview:

The Beverage Director will be responsible for developing, managing, costing, and executing the entire beverage program for Kuma Hospitality Group, which includes Michelin Star l’abeille and Sushi Ichimura, as well as l’abeille à côté; ensuring an exceptional experience with the wine & all other beverages programs offered, that complements our culinary offerings and enhances our guest experience.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and curate a comprehensive all-beverage list that aligns with each restaurant's culinary concept, price point, and target clientele
• Manage the entire beverage inventory, including purchasing, storage, pricing, and stock control
• Conduct regular wine, sake, cocktails, NA cocktails tastings and training sessions for our sommelier team and the Group’s front-of-house staff
• Maintain and update all beverage lists seasonally, focusing on diverse and innovative selections
• Develop wine and cocktails (including NA cocktails) pairings recommendations for all venues.
• Create and implement wine-focused events, tastings, and educational programs
• Manage the entire beverage budget and control costs while maintaining high-quality standards
• Build and maintain relationships with wine distributors, importers, and wine makers.
• Ensure proper wine storage, handling, and all beverage related service standards
• Assist in wine service during service
• Prepare beverage-related reports and analyze sales trends

Qualifications:

• Advanced Sommelier certification (CMS, ISG, or equivalent)
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in fine dining/Michelin star rated restaurants
• Extensive knowledge of global wine regions, varietals, and wine production methods
• Strong palate and ability to articulate wine characteristics
• Excellent communication and customer service skills
• Proficiency in inventory management and point-of-sale systems
• Bachelor’s degree in hospitality management or related field preferred
• Fluency in multiple languages is a plus

Technical Skills:

• Advanced wine, sake and cocktails knowledge
• Binwise Inventory management software
• Toast POS systems
• Basic accounting and budgeting skills
• Strong analytical and organizational abilities

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• Extended periods of standing
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends

Compensation:

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience: $90k to $120K
• Health benefits
• Staff wine education and tasting opportunities
• Performance bonuses + sales commission