What are the responsibilities and job description for the Wine Director position at Premium Liquor Store?
Benefits:
- Bonus based on performance
- Competitive salary
- Employee discounts
- Flexible schedule
- Free uniforms
- Opportunity for advancement
- Paid time off
- Training & development
Position Overview
We are seeking a knowledgeable and passionate Wine Buyer to curate and manage a refined, world-class wine selection for our upscale retail environment. This role is responsible for sourcing exceptional wines across all price points, with a strong emphasis on quality, uniqueness, and value.
The ideal candidate combines a deep understanding of global wine regions with strong business acumen, ensuring a balanced portfolio that appeals to both everyday customers and high-end collectors.
Key Responsibilities
Wine Selection & Purchasing
- Curate a diverse, high-quality wine assortment including Old World, New World, and emerging regions
- Source premium, boutique, and allocated wines to differentiate the store’s offering
- Evaluate new products through tastings and industry relationships
- Manage all wine purchasing, including order placement, pricing, and vendor negotiations
Vendor & Winery Relations
- Build and maintain strong relationships with distributors, importers, and winery representatives
- Negotiate pricing, allocations, and exclusive opportunities
- Coordinate in-store tastings, winemaker events, and staff education sessions
Inventory & Financial Management
- Monitor inventory levels, product turnover, and sales performance
- Optimize margins while maintaining a premium, competitive selection
- Analyze sales trends and adjust buying strategy accordingly
- Minimize overstocks and out-of-stocks
Merchandising & Presentation
- Design and maintain an elevated wine shopping experience through thoughtful merchandising
- Organize the sales floor by region, varietal, and price to enhance customer navigation
- Develop shelf talkers, tasting notes, and educational materials
Customer Experience & Expertise
- Serve as the in-store wine expert, assisting customers with selections for everyday use, cellaring, and special occasions
- Provide elevated service to high-end clientele, including personalized recommendations and collection building
- Train and mentor staff to confidently sell wine
Qualifications
- 2–5 years of experience in wine buying or a similar role in a premium retail or hospitality setting
- Strong knowledge of global wine regions, varietals, and producers
- Proven ability to analyze sales data and manage inventory effectively
- Excellent palate and tasting skills
- Strong negotiation and relationship-building abilities
- Passion for hospitality and delivering a high-end customer experience
Preferred Certifications (not required but a plus):
- WSET Level 2 or higher
- Certified Sommelier (Court of Master Sommeliers)
- Other relevant wine education credentials