The Lead Sommelier is responsible for leading and executing all aspects of the wine program at XS Nightclub, one of the world’s premier nightlife destinations. This position drives exceptional guest experiences through expert wine knowledge, luxury bottle service execution, team development, wine inventory management, and strategic beverage partnerships. The Lead Sommelier serves as a subject matter expert for wine and champagne service, supporting nightclub operations while elevating the guest experience through personalized recommendations, educational leadership, and Forbes Five-Star service standards.

This role works closely with Nightlife Operations, Beverage Leadership, Purchasing, and the Wine Team to ensure the wine and champagne program reflects Wynn Las Vegas’ commitment to luxury, innovation, and exceptional hospitality.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Guest Experience & Service Leadership

• Deliver exceptional guest service consistent with Wynn Las Vegas and XS Nightclub luxury service standards.
• Engage guests, VIP clientele, and table hosts with confidence and professionalism while providing expert wine and champagne recommendations.
• Curate personalized wine experiences for high-profile guests based on preferences, occasions, and menu pairings.
• Lead luxury wine presentations, decanting services, vintage discussions, and educational guest interactions.
• Ensure flawless execution of wine and champagne service during nightclub operations, special events, and VIP activations.
• Support management with service recovery efforts and guest satisfaction initiatives when necessary.

Wine Program Management

• Maintain and continuously enhance the XS Nightclub wine and champagne portfolio.
• Partner with the Wine Team to identify new offerings, seasonal selections, limited-production wines, and luxury champagne programs.
• Evaluate sales performance and recommend adjustments to maximize revenue opportunities while maintaining guest value.
• Develop creative wine and champagne promotions that complement nightlife programming and luxury guest experiences.
• Assist with vendor relationship management and wine allocation opportunities.

Inventory & Cost Control

• Manage wine receiving, storage, organization, and inventory procedures.
• Ensure all wines and champagnes are stored, rotated, and presented according to established quality standards.
• Conduct regular inventory audits and reconcile variances.
• Monitor product usage and shrinkage while maintaining established beverage cost goals.
• Coordinate with Purchasing and Beverage Management on inventory replenishment and special orders.
• Maintain accurate records of inventory, transfers, and high-value bottle movements.

Team Development & Training

• Serve as the primary wine education resource for nightclub leadership and service teams.
• Develop and conduct wine, champagne, and beverage training programs for managers, servers, bartenders, and server assistants.
• Coach team members on effective sales techniques, wine pairing recommendations, and luxury service presentation.
• Facilitate regular product knowledge sessions regarding new vintages, winery updates, regions, and guest trends.
• Mentor Sommeliers and beverage-focused team members to support internal career development.

Operational Excellence

• Ensure compliance with all Wynn Las Vegas, Nevada Health District, and alcohol service regulations.
• Maintain departmental policies, procedures, and service standards.
• Assist leadership with beverage initiatives, special projects, and event planning.
• Support nightclub operations during high-volume periods and major events.
• Promote a positive, collaborative, and professional work environment.
• Perform all other job-related duties as assigned.

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum three (3) years of experience as a Sommelier or Lead Sommelier in a luxury restaurant, resort, high-end lounge, nightlife venue, or fine dining environment.
• Experience managing premium wine and champagne programs with a strong luxury clientele preferred.
• Prior experience in a Forbes Five-Star or equivalent luxury hospitality environment strongly preferred.

Certifications

• Court of Master Sommeliers Certified Sommelier certification required.
• Advanced Sommelier certification preferred.
• Must obtain and maintain:
  • Alcohol Awareness Card
  • Nevada Health Card
  • Nevada Gaming Registration
  • Any additional licenses or work cards required by Wynn Las Vegas

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Extensive knowledge of wines, champagne, vintages, varietals, wine regions, and food pairings.
• Strong understanding of luxury bottle service and nightlife operations.
• Proven ability to increase sales through consultative guest engagement.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability to analyze inventory reports, beverage costs, and sales trends.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and beverage inventory systems.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-energy luxury nightlife environment.
• Fluency in English required; additional languages are a plus.

Physical Requirements

• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during shifts.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, reach, and navigate a high-volume nightclub environment.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events.
• Ability to work in an environment with elevated music levels, lighting effects, and exposure to smoke.

Wynn Resorts Core Expectations

• Demonstrate Wynn Resorts values through integrity, professionalism, and accountability.
• Maintain Forbes Five-Star service standards in all guest interactions.
• Promote positive and ethical relationships with guests, colleagues, business partners, and the community.
• Represent XS Nightclub and Wynn Las Vegas as an ambassador of luxury hospitality and nightlife excellence.

Wynn Resorts is an equal opportunity employer committed to hiring a diverse workforce and sustaining an inclusive culture. Wynn Resorts does not discriminate on the basis of disability, veteran status or any other basis protected under federal, state or local laws confidential according to EEO guidelines.