Job Overview & Organization Mission

Curate award-winning wine cellars, cocktail programs, and direct European imports across Merivale’s 90+ celebrated dining venues in Sydney.

Merivale is seeking an exceptional Group Beverage Director & Master Sommelier to direct the wine and beverage programs across our iconic portfolio of venues, including Mimi’s, Mr. Wong, The Ivy, and Hotel Centennial. You will curate award-winning multi-million-dollar wine cellars, partner directly with premier Burgundy and Champagne producers, design cocktail menus, and mentor over 60 sommeliers.

As a key member of the team at Merivale in Sydney, NSW, you will play a central role in driving excellence, upholding top-tier Australian industry standards, and contributing directly to the strategic milestones of one of the nation’s premier employers.

Key Duties & Core Responsibilities

In this critical role, your operational duties and key performance responsibilities will encompass:

• Oversee beverage: Oversee beverage philosophy, wine list curation, and spirits menus across 90+ premium venues.
• Negotiate exclusive: Negotiate exclusive direct import allocations with premier wine estates in France, Italy, and Australia.
• Manage group: Manage group beverage procurement contracts, gross profit margins, and inventory turnover across central cellars.
• Lead the: Lead the Merivale Sommelier Academy, delivering tastings, CMS examination prep, and wine service training.
• Collaborate with: Collaborate with executive chefs to curate harmonious, seasonal food and wine degustation pairings.

Required Qualifications, Licenses & Experience

To be successful in this position at Merivale, candidates are expected to satisfy the following essential selection criteria:

• Mandatory Qualification: Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS) Advanced/Master Sommelier or WSET Diploma.
• Relevant Experience: Minimum 7+ Years of verified industry experience in Australia or recognized overseas equivalence.
• 7+ years of senior sommelier or group beverage management experience in world-renowned hatted/Michelin venues.
• Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS) Advanced Sommelier or Master Sommelier credential, or WSET Diploma.
• Deep commercial acumen in beverage cost control, inventory management, and supplier negotiation.
• Charismatic public speaker with genuine passion for hospitality culture and storytelling.

Core Competencies & Key Technical Proficiencies

The successful applicant will possess demonstrated capabilities across the following domain skill sets:

Salary, Compensation & Employee Benefits

At Merivale, we understand that our people drive our achievements. An outstanding remuneration and wellbeing package is provided in line with Australian benchmarks:

• Competitive Remuneration: AU$150,000 – AU$180,000 per year + standard Australian Superannuation (11.5%).
• Remuneration $150,000 – $180,000 + performance bonus + superannuation.
• Central 320 George Street Sydney office with frequent visits to premier hospitality venues.
• 50% staff dining discount across all Merivale restaurants, bars, and boutique hotel rooms.
• Leave Entitlements: 4 weeks annual leave (with 17.5% annual leave loading where applicable) plus 10 days paid personal/carer’s leave.
• Flexible Work: Progressive work-life balance options with supportive corporate culture and leadership development pathways.

About the Employer: Merivale

Merivale is Australia’s most dynamic hospitality group, operating over 90 world-class restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues.

Merivale is deeply committed to building diverse, equitable, and culturally inclusive work environments. We proudly celebrate diversity and welcome applications from all qualified individuals including First Nations Australians, people with disabilities, and candidates from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Application Process & Next Steps

Applications for this position are currently open and being reviewed on a rolling basis. Suitable candidates are encouraged to apply as early as possible before the published closing date.

Please prepare an updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a tailored Cover Letter highlighting your relevant experience against the key selection criteria outlined above.

To proceed with your application, click the Apply on Employer Site button to access the official Merivale careers gateway.