Job Overview & Organization Mission

Curate an internationally celebrated multi-million dollar wine program and lead floor sommelier service in high-end dining.

The Lucas Group is seeking a distinguished Head Sommelier & Beverage Director for Society at 80 Collins Street, Melbourne. In this premier role, you will curate a cellar of over 3,000 global references, collaborate with award-winning culinary directors on pairings, and mentor an ambitious team of floor sommeliers.

As a key member of the team at Lucas Group in Melbourne, VIC, 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:

• Curate dynamic,: Curate dynamic, award-winning wine lists balancing Old World grand crus with boutique Australian biodynamic producers.
• Lead floor: Lead floor sommelier service during peak dinner services, offering tailored pairings to discerning clientele.
• Manage cellar: Manage cellar procurement, allocation access, en primeur purchases, and inventory cost margins.
• Conduct structured: Conduct structured weekly wine tastings and staff educational seminars across front-of-house teams.
• Host exclusive: Host exclusive winemaker dinners, private cellar masterclasses, and VIP client tastings.

Required Qualifications, Licenses & Experience

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

• Mandatory Qualification: Court of Master Sommeliers (Advanced / Master) or WSET Level 4 Diploma.
• Relevant Experience: Minimum 5+ Years of verified industry experience in Australia or recognized overseas equivalence.
• CMS Certified/Advanced Sommelier or WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wines.
• Minimum 4 years experience as a Head Sommelier in a Two/Three Chef Hat or Michelin-starred restaurant.
• Extensive personal relationships with leading Australian and international vignerons and distributors.
• Charismatic tableside presence and passion for wine storytelling.

Core Competencies & Key Technical Proficiencies

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

Salary, Compensation & Employee Benefits

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

• Competitive Remuneration: AU$115,000 – AU$140,000 per year + standard Australian Superannuation (11.5%).
• Salary $115,000 – $140,000 + 11.5% super + floor gratuities + performance bonus.
• Annual wine travel educational bursary to visit domestic and international wine regions.
• Work with Australia’s premier restaurant cellar at 80 Collins Street.
• 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: Lucas Group

The Lucas Group is one of Australia’s most revered hospitality groups, operating iconic dining institutions including Society and Chin Chin.

Lucas Group 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 Lucas Group careers gateway.